A better cup starts with a repeatable method
Loose-leaf black tea does not need a complicated ritual. Measure your tea and water, set a timer, and remove the leaves when the steep is finished. A consistent starting point makes it easier to find the strength you enjoy. Follow the instructions on your tea package first, especially for blends with additional ingredients.

Give the leaves room
Use a basket infuser or teapot with enough space for the leaves to expand. A tightly packed infuser can make extraction uneven. Choose a vessel that lets you separate the brewed tea from the leaves completely.

Strength and bitterness are not the same thing
For a fuller cup, try a little more leaf rather than extending the steep indefinitely. If your tea tastes harsh or drying, shorten the steep or let the water cool slightly before pouring. Change one variable at a time so you know what helped.

Milk, sweeteners, and a second cup
Taste your tea plain before adding milk or sweetener. If you enjoy milk, you may prefer a slightly stronger brew. Some leaves can make another enjoyable infusion, although the flavor will change. Try a fresh steep and judge it by taste rather than expecting an identical cup.

Make the method yours
Keep a short note of the amount of leaf, water temperature, and steeping time you liked. The best everyday recipe is one you can repeat with your own cup and kettle.

A practical starting recipe
Use about 1 teaspoon of loose-leaf black tea per 8 fluid ounces of water. Leaf size varies, so adjust the amount to taste or follow the package weight recommendation. Start with freshly boiled water and steep for 3–5 minutes, then remove the leaves. Taste at the shorter end first. For more strength, add a little more tea next time; for less astringency, shorten the steep.