Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C)
Scrub potatoes clean
Pat dry
Prick potatoes all over with a fork
Rub skins with olive oil (optional)
Sprinkle with salt
Place potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet
Bake 45–60 minutes (until skins are crisp and a knife slides in easily)
Flip potatoes halfway through (optional)
Test doneness by piercing with a knife or fork
Let rest 5–10 minutes
Cut a slit down the center
Fluff the inside with a fork
Add toppings (butter, sour cream, cheese, chives, salt, pepper)