Correct way of starting a NodeJs, React project with Express

Im a beginning with React, NodeJs and ExpressJs. I have seen many tutorials but im not sure of the correct way to start a project?

I have seen two ways. The first being express <project_name> and the second being npm init.

Which is correct and if there isnt a correct way then why would you initialize them differently when npm init includes express eventually (In the tutorials).

Thanks

via Jack Kitley