how long to bake a potato in the microwave
1 Prick several times using a fork. 2  Place the potato on a microwave-safe plate. 3  Cook on full power for 5 minutes. 4  Turn over and continue to cook for about 4-5 minutes more (depending on your size of potato the cooking time will vary). 5  When the potato is soft remove from the microwave and cut in half.