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makes the character more "skilled" (experienced).
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When taken from an in-character context, the idea is that "practice makes the master." Each release of a bow, swing of a sword, spell cast successfully, lock picked, etc. Crafting skills (Alchemy, Enchanting and Smithing), of course, increase mostly by crafting items. Some skills, specifically Lockpicking, can increase when an attempt to pick a lock is unsuccessful (when a lockpick breaks). However, most skills must be used in combat in order to gain the increase. Conjuration increases a little bit each time the Dragonborn summons a Bound Weapon or creature, for example an Atronach.
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The level of a given skill is increased as the skill is used successfully - Archery is increased when an arrow hits its target Destruction is increased when a spell causes damage to the target Sneak increases when the Dragonborn remains undetected in Sneak mode while in range of NPCs who otherwise could detect them, etc.
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3 Skill experience points and character level upĪll 18 skills can be grouped into 3 distinct categories based on the three guardian signs (shown in order, 3 of them are located ambiguously between the signs):.
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