Sift dry ingredients together. Cut in shortening until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add milk at once. Stir until dough follows fork; turn on lightly floured board.
Knead lightly for 30 seconds. Pat or roll into 1/2-inch thickness. Cut with biscuit cutter.
Bake on greased cookie sheet in hot oven (450 degrees) for 10 to 12 minutes. Makes 16 medium biscuits.