What makes Thanksgiving such a complicated meal? Family dynamics are tough enough to decode without the added pressure of figuring out a multi-course feast. PopSci is here to help you understand some of the science of Thanksgiving dishes in order to make your meal easier-and more fun-to prepare.

Turn the page below for scientific tricks to making your bird tender yet crispy, your mashed potatoes ultra-fluffy and a pie crust to rival granny's.