Efficiently gaining skill points and experience is crucial for character progression. Here are some ways to maximize your gains:
- High Intelligence: Intelligence directly affects the number of skill points you gain per level. Aim for at least 6-8 IN, or even 10 if you want to be a skill master.
- Comprehension Perk: Take this perk early (Level 3) to double the skill points gained from skill books. This is incredibly powerful for boosting many skills.
- Skill Books: Seek out skill books (e.g., 'Guns and Bullets', 'First Aid Book'). They provide permanent skill increases. Save them until you have the Comprehension perk.
- Quests, Not Kills: While combat grants experience, completing quests (especially with peaceful resolutions) often provides significantly more experience.
- Explore Thoroughly: Many hidden areas, containers, and dialogue options grant experience. Don't rush through locations.
- Save Skill Points: Sometimes it's beneficial to save skill points for a few levels until you can reach a specific threshold for a perk or a quest requirement.
By combining a high Intelligence with the Comprehension perk and actively seeking out quests and skill books, you can quickly become proficient in many areas, making the game much smoother.