What is the proper way to extract a 15 amp breaker from its shoe. One of my 15 amp breakers is bad and I want to replace it with a new one. Do I need a tool to extract the breaker from its shoe. How do I take it out?

Remove circuit panel cover, turn breaker to off position and continue pushing. Breaker should disconnect from electrical connection in the center of panel. Then unhook from outboard connection point. No tools needed. Once in a great while you will find breakers that are held in place on the outboard side by a screw but that's rare in residential panels.

What hkstroud said... but in the event it won't come out easily and you feel the need to pry it out with a tool of some sort between the breakers... TURN OFF THE MAIN BREAKER!! And if for ANY reason you are uncomfortable with this procedure... call someone who is experienced enough to perform it for you. Safety first.