Bring the water in a large pot to a boil.
Once the water boils, stir in the rice. Add the salt & butter - if using.
Bring the rice back to a simmer.
Cover and let cook according to the directions. Bring the temperature back to low.
White rice will be done around 18 minutes. Brown rice might take 10 minutes more. When done, the rice will be tender, but shouldn’t be mushy.