Different techniques of cooking lentils

In the Pressure cooker

Place lentils in a stainless steel or other container that can be used in a pressure cooker. Fill with water and swirl with your hands a few times and drain water. Refill with water that is at least 1/2 an inch above the lentils. Let lentils soak in this water for about 20 to 30 minutes. Place container in the pressure cooker and cook until soft. In my pressure cooker that usually translates to 2 to 3 whistles

On the Stove Top
Follow the step above until letting the lentils soak for about 30 mins. Place lentils along with water in a heavy bottomed pan and place on heat. Allow to cook, stirring often and adding water as required until lentils are soft.

In the microwave
Place lentils in a shallow microwave safe dish. Follow the step in first method until soaking for 30 minutes.
Cook on high in 2 minute increments, stirring occasionally and adding water as required until lentils are cooked and soft.