It isn't rocket science.

I prefer the silicone coated steel shim gaskets, but I have used all the commonly available types.

I have almost never used RTV, a crutch for poor workmanship, imo.

Flat rails, on the cover and head, fresh gaskets and properly torquing to spec is all that is needed. I might use a spray glue to glue the gasket to the valve cover to ease installation, but I have also used thread to tie the gasket to the cover.

If you get into aftermarket intakes or covers then you prefit and check for issues, fix them and install as above.

They say there are no such thing as a stupid question.
They say there is always the exception that proves the rule.
Don't be the exception.