TL;DR
- Arcanists need 100-120 skill points for core builds, 150+ for optimization
- 65 skill points come automatically from leveling to 50
- Public dungeons offer fastest skill point returns with strategic approaches
- Dungeon quests provide 52 points but require level-based unlocking strategy
- Always complete Alliance War tutorial for essential mount speed passive
Navigating skill point acquisition in The Elder Scrolls Online presents a critical challenge for Arcanist players. With approximately 534 total skill points available across Tamriel, strategic planning becomes essential for character development. This comprehensive guide reveals optimal skill point targets and efficient farming methods to accelerate your Arcanist’s progression.
For Arcanist specialization, a practical baseline of 100 skill points enables complete passive coverage including mount speed enhancements and potion effectiveness. This allocation supports competitive performance metrics while maintaining versatility for various content types.
Advanced optimization demands escalate requirements significantly. Incorporating weapon specialization, defensive capabilities, and guild skill lines typically necessitates 150+ points. Players engaging in both PvP and PvE content may require additional allocations, though the Armory system provides valuable flexibility for build management.
Crafting enthusiasts and economic-focused players should anticipate approximately 250 skill points for comprehensive coverage including hireling passives and refinement skills.
Strategic resource management proves crucial during early progression. The 100-120 point range serves as an effective initial target, with respec options available at Tribunal temples for gold currency adjustments.
Leveling Foundations (65 skill points)
Character advancement provides the foundation with 64 skill points from leveling rewards plus an additional point from tutorial completion. These guaranteed points establish your baseline before exploring supplementary acquisition methods.
Quest Efficiency Tactics (10+ skill points)
Main story quests deliver efficient early returns with straightforward objectives and substantial XP bonuses. Complete the Council of the Five Companions arc then pause before Coldharbour transitions to maintain optimal time investment returns.
Zone selection dramatically impacts skill point yield rates. Base-game and Chapter zones typically offer only 3 skill points per completion, while smaller DLC regions like Murkmire and Markarth provide 6-8 points with reduced travel requirements.
Clockwork City emerges as the premier story content choice, combining engaging narrative with 8 skill points and exclusive XP scroll rewards contingent on specific dialogue choices.
Dungeon Optimization (52 skill points)
Group dungeon quests represent a substantial source, with each completion granting one skill point. Understanding the unlocking mechanism proves essential:
3 dungeons unlock at level 10
Plus 2 more every 2 levels
All DLC dungeons unlock at level 45
Progressive unlocking creates ideal conditions during early levels, with reduced repetition likelihood until approximately level 30-35 when pool saturation increases.
Public Dungeon Mastery (44 skill points)
Public dungeons offer the most time-efficient skill point returns when approached strategically. High Isle dungeons provide exceptional value with dual skill point rewards per location.
Optimization involves targeting group events while bypassing lengthy quest chains. Most public dungeons remain solo-accessible with proper preparation and skill selection.
Respawn mechanics favor efficient farming, with achievement-based timers reducing wait periods to approximately 30 seconds between events.
Skyshard Collection Strategy (181 potential points)
With 543 skyshards scattered throughout Tamriel, strategic collection proves essential. Prioritize easily accessible shards near wayshrines initially, reserving delve-hidden shards for later progression phases.
Essential PvP Tutorial (3 skill points)
The Alliance War tutorial delivers exceptional value regardless of PvP interest. Completing siege training ensures rank advancement to unlock Continuous Attack passive for 30% mount speed enhancement.
This brief 3-minute investment provides three skill points and critical mobility improvements essential for efficient travel.
Progression sequencing significantly impacts efficiency. Begin with main quest advancement to level 10, complete the Alliance War tutorial, then transition to random dungeons during peak leveling efficiency periods.
Common optimization errors include neglecting mount speed passives early and inefficient dungeon queue timing. Always maintain a diversified approach to prevent progression stagnation.
Advanced players should leverage the Class Guide principles when planning skill allocations to ensure balanced development across combat and utility capabilities.
Time investment planning proves crucial. Public dungeon group events typically yield skill points within 5-10 minutes per point, while dungeon quests require 15-25 minutes depending on group composition and familiarity.
Action Checklist
- Complete main quest to Council of Five Companions (10 points)
- Run Alliance War tutorial for mount speed passive (3 points)
- Farm High Isle public dungeons for dual skill point rewards
- Queue for random dungeons as they unlock (52 points)
- Collect easily accessible skyshards near wayshrines (30+ points)
- Visit Tribunal temple in Necrom for skill respec as needed
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