Start with a clean basket
Old grounds and moisture make the coffee bed less predictable. Dry the basket before dosing and keep the rim clean.
A clean basket also helps the portafilter seal properly.
Distribute before tamping
If the grounds are clumped or piled to one side, tamping will not fix the problem. Use gentle distribution to make the bed even.
WDT can help with clumps, especially on compact grinders.
Tamp level
A level tamp matters more than extreme force. Press straight down, keep the tamper flat and avoid twisting aggressively after tamping.
Consistency is the goal. Repeat the same motion every shot.
Taste the difference
Better puck prep often tastes sweeter, fuller and calmer. You may see fewer sprays and less uneven blonding.
If nothing changes, revisit grind size and dose.