Britain loves a good cup of tea, but ask two people how to make it and you may start a friendly argument. This short FAQ answers the questions people are too polite to ask out loud.

Does the milk go in first or last?

Most tea drinkers add milk after the tea has brewed, so they can judge the colour. Adding milk first has its defenders, but for a standard mug brewed with a bag, milk last gives you far more control over the strength.

How long should it brew?

For a typical black tea, three to four minutes is the sweet spot. Less than that and the flavour is thin; much longer and it turns bitter. Keep the cup covered while it steeps to hold the heat.

Is it really worth warming the pot?

For a proper pot of tea, yes. A quick swill of hot water warms the vessel so the brewing temperature stays high. For a single mug it matters less, but the ritual is part of the pleasure.

What about the perfect biscuit?

This is where households divide. A digestive holds up well to dunking, while a rich tea demands a quick dip or it collapses entirely. Choose wisely, and never leave a biscuit in too long.

The honest truth is that the best cup of tea is simply the one made the way you like it. Tradition is a guide, not a rulebook.