Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Mix sugars, butter, vanilla (optional) and egg in a large bowl. Stir in flour, baking soda and salt (dough will be stiff).
If you want to make different cookies, such as chocolate chip, oatmeal, cranberry, etc., this would be where you throw a handful of that ingredient in and mix it with the basic dough!
Drop dough by rounded tablespoonfuls about 2 inches apart onto ungreased cookie sheets (or trays).
Bake 8-10 minutes or until light brown (centres will be soft). Cool slightly; remove from cookie sheet.
6. Cool on wire rack and enjoy!