1. **Prepare the Oven:**

– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.

2. **Cream Butter and Sugars:**

– In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.

3. **Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla:**

– Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

4. **Combine Dry Ingredients:**

– In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking soda.

5. **Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients:**

– Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter-sugar-egg mixture, mixing until just combined.

6. **Add Oats and Optional Ingredients:**

– Stir in the rolled oats. If desired, fold in chocolate chips, nuts, or raisins.

7. **Shape the Cookies:**

– Using a rounded tablespoon or cookie scoop, place portions of the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between them for spreading.

8. **Bake:**

– Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers appear slightly underbaked. They will firm up as they cool.

9. **Cool:**

– Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.