Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C)
Scrub potatoes clean and pat dry
Poke 6–8 holes in each potato with a fork
Rub skins with olive oil or melted butter
Sprinkle generously with salt
Place potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a foil-lined baking sheet
Bake 45–60 minutes (45–55 for medium, 60–75 for large), until skins are crisp and potatoes are tender
Turn potatoes halfway through baking (optional)
Check doneness by inserting a knife into the thickest part; it should slide in easily
Remove from oven and let rest 5–10 minutes
Split, fluff the inside with a fork, and add toppings as desired