I agree the hydrometer is the way to go. However for those who have such a small operation that they only make a pint or two and will be consumed the next day on their pancakes. A method an old farmer tought me that works is to dip a ladle or spoon into the syrup or almost syrup. If the drips are single it's too thin, If you get three drips across almost joining it's ready. For all those with hydrometers and thermometers try it out and that method will be **** near right on.