If the shallot has more than one bulb, pull them apart. Cut off the stem end of the shallot. Peel back the skin and discard. Keep the root end on to make it easier to cut.
Diced shallots
Slice the shallot in half lengthwise. In each half, make lengthwise slits. Cut the shallot crosswise to dice it.
Sliced shallots (half rings)
Slice the shallot in half lengthwise, then make crosswise cuts on each half to yield half rings.
Sliced shallots (full rings)
Make crosswise cuts on the shallot to yield full rings.