To use a rice cooker, follow these simple steps for perfectly cooked rice:

1. Rinse the rice thoroughly with cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
2. Measure the rinsed rice and add it to the rice cooker’s inner pot.
3. Add water to the pot, using the rice cooker’s markings or a 1:1 water-to-rice ratio for white rice.
4. Close the lid and press the start or cook button.
5. Wait for the rice cooker to finish cooking; it will usually switch to a "keep warm" mode when done.
6. Let the rice rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking, then fluff it with a rice paddle and serve.
7. Clean the inner pot with mild soap and a soft sponge after use.

These basic steps work for most electric rice cookers, whether simple or more advanced models with additional settings. Avoid opening the lid during cooking to keep the steam inside for best results.