Measure out the warm water and stir the sugar, if using, into it.
Sprinkle the yeast over the top of the water and allow to activate for a few minutes. It should look foamy.
In a medium to large mixing bowl, add the flour, salt and olive oil.
Pour in the yeast water and stir until a loose dough ball forms.
Lightly flour a surface and your (clean) hands and knead the dough for a couple minutes until it begins to feel almost elastic-like in your hands.
Add just a little more oil to the bowl, coating the sides, and place the dough ball back in the bowl. Cover with a kitchen towel. Allow to rise until it’s nearly doubled in size, about 45 minutes to an hour.
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to a circle. If you want to try tossing it in the air like they do in the movies feel free, but I usually just use a rolling pin. Place on a lightly floured baking sheet.
Cover with sauce, cheese, and other toppings. Bake at 400°F (204°C) for 15-16 minutes.