Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C)
Scrub potatoes clean under running water
Pat potatoes dry
Poke each potato 6–8 times with a fork
Rub skins lightly with olive oil
Sprinkle evenly with salt
Place potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet
Bake 45–60 minutes for medium potatoes, 60–75 minutes for large potatoes
Check doneness by inserting a fork into the center (it should slide in easily)
Let potatoes rest 5 minutes
Slice lengthwise and fluff the inside with a fork
Add toppings as desired (butter, sour cream, cheese, chives, bacon, salt, pepper)