Risers are reservoirs of molten metal connected to castings during solidification to compensate for shrinkage. There are different riser design methods, including Caine's method, the modulus method, and the shape factor method, which use concepts like freezing ratio and modulus to determine optimal riser size and placement. Caine's method calculates freezing ratio based on surface area to volume ratios of the casting and riser. The modulus method sizes risers to have a higher modulus than castings. And the shape factor method uses charts to relate shape factor, freezing ratio, and required riser volume. Proper riser design prevents defects from shrinkage.