Choose russet potatoes
Scrub the potatoes clean
Dry the potatoes completely
Preheat the oven to 425°F
Poke each potato several times with a fork
Rub the skin with oil
Sprinkle the skin with salt
Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet
Bake for 45 to 60 minutes
Turn the potatoes halfway through baking
Check for doneness by piercing with a fork or squeezing gently
Remove from the oven
Let rest for 5 to 10 minutes
Split open the potato
Fluff the inside with a fork
Add butter, salt, and desired toppings