Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, blending until just combined.
Fold in the chocolate chips or other decorations.
Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake in the preheated oven for 9 to 11 minutes or until edges are golden but centers are still soft.
Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.