I plan to unimaginatively go with four in every stat. Leveling will be quick at first and a six in any given stat is only two levels away. But then, I'm the type who stresses minimizing weaknesses over reinforcing strengths.

The closer we get to game time, the more I start to wonder if this isn't a better approach. Since we can put a point in a base stat, we could level it to where we want to get a respective perk in short order. I may just go with an 8 in one category, and balance the rest.

Starting with all 4's is actually a very sensible approach, especially in your first play through being you've no clue how to best prepare for what's ahead.

Also, it will allow you access to both lockpick and hacking, which is imo two of the best first choices for perks.

True, while playing skyrim I finally said to myself " this game is honestly too much" which was amazing to say. By the time I'd finish one quest I'd have picked up 4 during this first one.

I recognize the importance of both Charisma and Local Leader. But I'm set on my Agility at a 6, as well as Perception and Endurance both at a 5. So my Charisma will start at a 4. This gives me Lone Wanderer and Attack Dog at least. And I'm not far off from Local Leader.

The real travesty to me is that Bethesda has Animal Friend BEFORE Local Leader. IMO, Animal Friend is a waste of a perk. Too bad AF and LL weren't switched around--I would've immediately raised my Charisma to a 5 from the get-go. But alas it's not meant to be .