What are the different ways to melt chocolate?

There are two common ways of melting chocolate: the stovetop and microwave methods. As explained by Food.com, both methods initially involve cutting the chocolate into small pieces, to prevent scorching and melt the chocolate evenly.

For the stovetop method, the chocolate is held in a heat-proof bowl over a barely-simmering pan of water. Eight ounces of chocolate melt in approximately three minutes. In contrast, it takes about 90 seconds for the same amount of chocolate to melt in a microwave under 50 percent power. Regardless of the heating method, after the chocolate has started to melt, it should be stirred to ensure an even texture and temperature.