Enolates can be prepared using two common methods, namely, the deprotonation of ketones or aldehydes with a strong base, or through the use of a weaker base under equilibrium conditions.
Strong bases like LDA (Lithium Diisopropylamide) or NaHMDS (Sodium Hexamethyldisilazide) are typically used for the complete deprotonation at the alpha position.
Alternatively, bases such as sodium ethoxide can be used to generate enolates in a reversible manner, allowing for control over the reaction by removing the formed enol or enolate.
The choice of base and reaction conditions can influence the selectivity and yield of the enolate formation.