From preparing to cooking, this is what you will need to know! 

Slow Soak Method

Soaking dry beans in water overnight isn't really necessary.

Fast Soak Method

Boil Dry Beans for a couple of minutes and let them soak for 1 hour before cooking. 

Faster Soak Option

Boil dry beans over medium heat for 10 minutes. Soak, covered, for 30 minutes. Cook.

Cooking 

Drain Well. Add 2 cups of water per 1/2 cup of presoaked dry beans. Cook for about 1 hour. If the beans aren't presoaked, lengthen the cooking time by 1 hour. Skim off the scum that surfaces during cooking.

Exceptions

Lentil and split peas don't need presoaking; they take only 1-1 1/2 cups water per 1/2 cup beans and cook in 20-35 minutes.

Crockpot Method

This is a great method to cook beans.  No soaking necessary! Place washed and sorted beans in the crockpot with enough water to cover the beans by at least 3 inches. For all day cooking, cook on low. For half day cooking, cook on high. Season the beans before you cook them (if desired) but do not add tomatoes ( or any other acidic ingredients) until the beans are cooked.