About 54% of Americans over age 18 drink coffee every day, making it an incredibly popular beverage option, especially during the work day. But if you're one of the people who starts up their coffee maker and guzzle down three cups before 10 a.m., you're actually doing it wrong. That's right -- science has shown that there are several tips that can enhance the effects of coffee and make it more conducive to your productivity. Here are just a few of the best times to drink coffee throughout the day, backed by science.

Avoid the Morning Cup
It may seem counterintuitive, but as we just mentioned, drinking coffee before 10 a.m. isn't ideal. Your body's cortisol levels spike in the morning, making the effects of coffee less noticeable. Try to resist that caffeine craving and wait until after 10 a.m. to drink your first cup of the day. After that, the best time is usually between 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. If you're worried that drinking it that late may affect your sleep quality, don't drink it past 2 p.m.

Take a Short 'Coffee Nap'
According to the FDA, the caffeine in coffee is absorbed and circulated within 30 minutes to an hour; its effect can last up to six hours. Coffee enhances the energy levels of your brain, improving concentration and memory retention, leading to better cognitive performance. And though it may seem odd, studies have shown that taking a short power nap after drinking a cup of coffee can help provide you with a much-needed boost of energy after you awaken. It sounds crazy, but it works!

Drink Coffee After an Educational Event
Finally, if you have a class or other type of learning session, it may seem logical to grab a cup of coffee on the way. However, studies actually suggest that it can be more beneficial to wait until after the event to indulge in a hot, fresh cup of specialty coffee from your single cup office coffee maker. Try having about 200 mg of caffeine after the event, and you may be surprised at the amount of knowledge you retain.

Ultimately, knowing the best times to drink coffee can help you stay productive at any time of day. For more information about single cup office coffee makers, contact American Coffee Services.