TL; DR 12. How to Do Effective Food Shopping (89 words)

Plan the week’s meals, then write a list from the plan. Buy what you will eat; less ends up in the bin, and you avoid a second trip.

I file my plans and recycle those that work well.

Keep a running needs list; when something runs low, add it straight away.

If you use the same supermarket, write your list in aisle order so you walk the shop once without doubling back.

Do not shop when hungry. Hungry shoppers buy more, and they make poor choices, seeking a quick fix.

Buy the staples in bulk; buy the fresh food often.

First action: Plan next week’s meals, then write the shopping list from the plan in aisle order.

TL;DR 11. How to Become a Great Cook (190 words)

To cook well, you need three things: tools, space and decent ingredients.

Tools. You need fewer than you think. And you don’t need gadgets if you are willing to use a bit of muscle to beat egg whites or take the time to learn a skill such as making pastry. A good, sharp cook’s knife, a large chopping board, a heavy frying pan, a large saucepan and a roasting tin will cover most meals. Buy quality once rather than cheap many times.

Space. Clear the worktop before you start. Get everything out, chopped and measured before the heat goes on. Chefs call it ‘mise en place’, and it is why real chefs stay calm; TV chefs are different. Clear as you go.

Food. Keep a store cupboard: olive oil, salt, pepper, tinned tomatoes, onions, garlic, pasta, rice, eggs, stock cubes. With those and your very best fresh ingredients, bought locally and in season, you can always have a wonderful meal.

Learn five dishes by heart. For those in the UK I suggest scrambled eggs, roast chicken, bolognese sauce, apple crumble and a proper custard. Then build from there.

I love to cook. It’s therapy. It’s a gift for those you prepare for. It saves money. It’s better for your health.

First action: Choose one of the five dishes and cook it three times this month.