» Sat May 28, 2011 4:46 am
gpstr makes good points. I'd add one thing, though, which isn't really in the wiki info. Basically, the wiki has good info, but it is always pretty much categorized. Unfortunately, the game itself is not segregated like that.
In other words, the different skills have different xp requirements and thus develop at different rates. In addition, some skills are far, far easier to use/control than others. The magic schools are a great example. All of the magic schools are extremely easy to control, and thus are extremely easy to level. Not only that, but all the magic schools really do not require very many uses per level in order to get to the next level regardless of if they are minor, major, or specialized. Every magic school has spells you can cast on yourself, or you can create custom spells to do so, and thus they become very easy to develop no matter how you set up your character.
In contrast, combat skills are far more difficult to control. You have to have a target, for one thing; you cannot hit yourself (^_^). You can hit yourself with a spell, but not with a combat weapon (try shooting yourself with a bow, or slash yourself with a dagger... doesn't work.) Same with a skill like Armorer. You have to have a damaged weapon or armor to use it. Compared to the magic schools, this makes such skills much more difficult to develop even if they are specialized and even if you make them major. In addition, they require far more uses to level than the magic schools and, since their actual use is more difficult to achieve, this drags out the development even further.
Another skill for contrast (easier skill, that is) is Sneak. Easy to control, easy to develop, doesn't require much use to level even without major or specialization. Also, it's use can easily be done in safe situations with no danger to yourself.