So I play on a pc and have been for a few years now, but I have yet to venture into the world of mods. I had a few questions before I start.

If I start using a mod do I have to also start a new character? Or can all of the changes be applied to the old save file. Also once I start using a mod on a file can I stop using it easily without having to reload an earlier save. Do these questions have different answers for different mods?

Also what are your suggestions for some mods I should try? Fyi my laptop isn't the greatest which is why I haven't tried any yet.

some mods can be used on a prior save, but with most it is good practice to start a new save game..

and if you remove a mod, you should always either start a new game, or resort back to a prior save from before you installed the mod.. as when you deactivate the .esp your save file now incorperates scripts from the .esp which can cause several issues down the road..

not true with A LOT of mods, only one with scripts in them. item mods, and texture mods can be taken in and out with literally no issues.

EDIT: also, OP, NEVER use the steam workshop, ever.

Official updates seem to recommend starting a new character but the few steam workshop mods that I've tried have been ok with an existing save. I also have a relatively puny PC. When I've de-selected a mod I've had no problems but do get a warning that the game load relies on some data that is no longer available (or similar). I just say ok and its been fine. I would say, however, that I don't have lots of detailed mods, only a few simple ones so I could just be lucky so far... My favourite mods are skyrim unbound - allows for alternate starts, and immersive armours - think you need the nexus mod manager for that one - worked ok for an existing save but its really good so I've never de-selected it.

While I agree with this sentiment, I think it is a disservice to a new member to blatantly say so without explanation of WHY.

I'll leave you to explain your reasoning...

okay, basically, the reason the steam workshop is bad is because once you download it, it does not tell you what or if it overrides anything else from a different mod like the nexus mod manager does. it will also automatically update any and all mods you through it have no matter what. This is REALLY bad as many mods have very specific instructions on how to update or uninstall the mod. Basically, Steam workshop acts as if mods are plug and play, of which most are definitely not.