2 c. flour
1 tsp. salt
4 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. cream of tartar
1/2 c. shortening
2/3 - 3/4 c. milk

Mix dry ingredients together. Cut in shortening as pie crust. Add milk all at once and stir until dough follows fork. (1 cup milk for drop biscuits.) Knead gently until holds together. Roll 1/2" to 1" thick. Cut and bake at 450 degrees for 10 to 12 minutes. Add a little sugar for shortcake.