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Espresso Yield and Time Calculator Guide for Better Baselines

Use yield and time together to build a stable espresso baseline and improve repeatability shot to shot.

Yield and time are most useful when tracked together across sessions. One shot is noise; a sequence of logged shots reveals trends.

Start with a simple baseline

Pick one dose and one target yield. Pull three shots with minimal adjustments and log each result.

Use average shot time and flavor notes to set your starting profile for that coffee.

Watch trend direction, not single outliers

If time drifts faster over days, coffee may be aging and needing finer grind.

If time drifts slower, humidity, puck prep, or retained fines may be shifting extraction.

Translate numbers into actions

Fast plus sour trend: grind finer or extend yield slightly.

Slow plus bitter trend: grind coarser or shorten yield slightly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I optimize for exact shot time?

No. Keep a band, then optimize for flavor and consistency inside that band.

How much data is enough for a baseline?

Five to ten logged shots usually reveal a clear pattern for one coffee.

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