I normally figure where I want to anchor, pass over the area to see what depth is really there then go out where I have sea room. Let the boat drift while I flake out enough chain on deck- I lay it out along the side deck, usually in two runs. This normally results in about 40 feet of chain flaked out, Secure to the cleat, then sail, or motor back to where I want the anchor. Take the boat out of gear, or let fly sheets . Walk to bow and lower the anchor and as the boat drifts back, gently snub to begin the set.. Once I feel it set fairly hard,, I set harder. once I reach the end of what has been flaked, I adjust as needed, and back down hard on the anchor.
Then I fill out the log, while watching to be sure I'm anchored for real
Sometimes UN anchoring solo is a bigger problem, particularly with little clearance astern. Then I set up the tiller pilot on whatever seem the best course,crank the engine, engage it in slow ahead, and go begin hauling in rode. I pile it on deck til the anchor hits the roller,, go back and take over the helm until I'm in clear water, then go stow the rode. HOWEVER, if I'm running the ICW I usually just leave the chain piled on deck, so should I need to anchor quickly, I can just go drop.
Technique worked well for me on a single hand from Mobjack Bay to here on Matogorda Bay on the Texas coast, and a round trip here to Pensacola Fla and return