1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter or margarine and sugars until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
6. If desired, stir in some chocolate chips and nuts.
7. Scoop the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 2 inches (5 cm) between each cookie.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
9. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.