I use braid/superlines for basically all my fishing and ALWAYS use a mono or fluro leader.
I prefer a long mono leader on conventional gear, basically a shock-leader length which is twice the length of the rod and a few times around the spool. With spinning gear I tend to use maybe 3' of mono, but have been experimenting with "shock leader" lengths as well with no ill effect.
The connection knots I use vary. Uni to uni is quick and easy to tie, but a bit bulky. Still can cast with them with little reduction in distance. The Alberto knot which is a modified Albright with a lock is very strong and compact. Takes a little practice but can tie them in wind on a heaving boat quickly.
Newest connection knot I've been using and loving is tying a short bimini twist in the braid. Takes a little practice and trail-n-error, but can now tie them very quickly and easily. The loop I make is much shorter than offshore applications, maybe about 8-12" long when done. Once that's in the line, I tie the Yucatan to connect the braid. This knot is SIMPLE and done in seconds flat. Strong and compact!!!
To me, swivels for braid/mono connection are a hassle. You have a knot at each end and then the knot at the end of the mono for whatever you're attaching. There's also the risk of reeling the swivel into your tip and thru the guides. I've seen tips come off and rods literally exlode at the tip from people doing that.
I'd never tie direct. The long mono leader gives you alot of benefits. For one it gives you something to grab in case you have to lift a fish up jetty rocks or into a boat. Don't try that with straight braid.
The mono leader also is better with abrasion resistance and gives you a little buffer/shock absorber. Stealth too especially is you use flurocarbon leader material.
If you fish party boats or crowded spots, it's a million times easier to untangle that mono leader than braid. Once you have the connection, all you have to do is tie whatever rigs, lures, knots, etc at the end using your standard mono knots.
When properly tied, the aforementioned knots will hold and break-offs should occur at the far end of the leader. Of course you have to match up the strength of the braid and leader material. Generally you want a lighter leader # test than your braid running/main line. This is the main difference with a true "shock leader" that power casters employ.
All depends on personal preference and what works for you. No one way is right. Tie direct, use swivels as connections, or something similar to my methods of madness.
I just figured I'd give the flip side of the coin
