There are many, many methods to cast on stitches. The method I prefer for casting on stitches is the Long Tail Cast On. This method only works for starting new work. You can’t use this method to cast on in the middle of work, such as when knitting the thumb hole of a mitten or the color changes of an entrelac piece.
I like the long tail cast on because it is fast and, once you get the hang of it, easy. It can be made tight if necessary, or very loose as needed, simply by adjusting the size of the needle or needles used during the cast on. If you need a tight, stable cast on edge, use a size or two smaller needle. If you need loose, stretch cast on, use several sizes larger needle. For the cuff of socks or mittens, I just double up the needles I’ll be working with to do the cast on. Then pull one needle out of the cast on, and start knitting.
Here is a video demonstration of the Long Tail Cast On.