How do you pick your sims' traits?

It's fascinating to hear how everyone selects sims' traits, and especially how much thought so many of us have put into the process. Even many of those who randomize to an extent—and there are more players in this category than I would have imagined—still might have a plan of sorts, or intervene to shape the outcome without deciding it entirely. And then there are the people like me who tend to let our inner control freaks run wild. Hey, if we're going to make our sims spend all day painting or sculpting or playing for tips or whatever, the least we can do is give them traits that will help them enjoy it.

I guess it shouldn't be surprising that the randomize button gets so much use, though, since most of us have played TS3 for years. Picking the same positive (or positively entertaining) traits over and over can get boring, and there are so many trait-related quirks and interactions we might miss if we stuck to the same patterns. Plus, having to account for a more... difficult... personality can make gameplay much more interesting than if everything always went smoothly.

Thanks for voting and commenting, everyone, and I hope you're all enjoying this thread as much as I am.