I have looked at several recipes that I want to try. Some call for flour, but do not specify plain or self-rising. Is there some unspoken rule that it implies one or the other?

Just use plain enriched white flour. What is it you want to bake ? Most recipes just say l or 2 cups or so of [B]flour[/B. Meaning plain flour.

Use your regular kitchen variety flour (enriched) unless the recipe your following calls out specifically for "Self Rising". If the recipe is hand written from a friend, then I suggest contacting that person directly and asking them. If the recipe is written professionally and published, then they would specify the flour if anything other than regular flower.

Many successful dishes to you "Tickle" :)

Thank you for your help. I was confused because the recipe called for flour and baking soda but not salt. I will try the plain flour since it did not specify self rising