Preheat the oven to 450°F
Scrub the potato clean and dry it well
Pierce the potato 4 to 6 times with a fork
Rub the potato with a little oil
Sprinkle with salt
Place the potato directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet
Bake for 45 to 60 minutes, depending on size
Check doneness by squeezing gently with an oven mitt or inserting a fork
Remove from the oven
Slice open and fluff the inside with a fork
Add butter, salt, and toppings if desired