There are 82 skills in Starfield. Each skill has 4 ranks that progressively increase the power of that skill. Before a skill can increase in rank you must complete the relevant skill challenges, like destroy 5 spaceships.

Skills are grouped into five categories: Physical, Social, Combat, Science, and Tech. Each Skill category is divided into four tiers: Novice, Advanced, Expert, and Master Skills. Skill tiers are unlocked by spending more skill points in the relevant skill category. For example, you can only obtain master Combat Skills after you have spent 12 skill points within the Combat Skill tree.

Starfield does not have a max level cap and since the player gains a skill point each time they level up it is possible to obtain all the skills and level each skill to rank 4. This would require 228 skill points. During Character Creation the player chooses a background which provides 3 starting skills, so to max out all the skills in Starfield you would need reach level 325. This would take a long time since the required experience er level progressively grows each time you level up, reaching a cap of 10k XP per level after level 80.

If you click the skill name below you will be taken to a separate page with skill levelling tips and tricks.

All Skill Categories

Combat Skills

Starfield has 17 Combat Skills. Many of Starfields weapons are affected by multiple combat skills at once, so creating the best character build for your preferred weapon type as you level up in Starfield will ensure you can easily deal with higher level enemies.

Most combat skills increase weapon damage with a specific type of weapon like: Ballistics, Demolitions, or Heavy Weapons Certification. Others improve combat abilities across weapon types, such as Rapid Reloading, Armor Penetration or Marksmanship which increases your critical hit chance.

For guidance on the fastest way to level up each skill to rank 4 by quickly completing each skill challenge, click the skills name below for a quick guide.

Name	Tier	Benefits	Challenge	Skill ID
Armor Penetration	4	Rank 1: Attacks ignore 15% of a target's armor Rank 2: Attacks ignore 30% of a target's armor Rank 3: Attacks ignore 50% of a target's armor Rank 4: Enemy armor is decreased by 25% for 6 seconds after a critical hit	Rank 1: Kill 20 enemies with a non-automatic weapon Rank 2: Kill 50 enemies with a non-automatic weapon Rank 3: Kill 100 enemies with a non-automatic weapon Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock this r	0027DF94
Ballistics	1	Rank 1: Ballistic weapons do 10% more damage Rank 2: Ballistic weapons do 20% more damage Rank 3: Ballistic weapons do 30% more damage Rank 4: Ballistic weapons range is increased by 30%	Rank 1: Kill 20 enemies with a ballistic weapon Rank 2: Kill 50 enemies with a ballistic weapon Rank 3: Kill 100 enemies with a ballistic weapon Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock this rank	002CFCAB
Crippling	4	Rank 1: Human enemies have a 30% increased chance to enter a downed state after taking enough damage Rank 2: Humanoid enemies have a 50% increased chance to not naturally recover from a downed state Rank 3: Human enemies now can enter a downed state earlier Rank 4: Previous ranks now apply to all enemy types You now do 100% more damage to downed enemies	Rank 1: Put 20 enemies into the bleedout state Rank 2: Put 50 enemies into the bleedout state Rank 3: Put 100 enemies into the bleedout state Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock this rank	0027CBBA
Demolitions	2	Rank 1: Throwing grenades now shows a trajectory arc Explosions have a 25% larger radius Rank 2: Explosives do 25% more damage Rank 3: Reduce damage taken from explosives by 25% Rank 4: All previous bonuses are doubled	Rank 1: Kill 20 enemies with explosives Rank 2: Kill 50 enemies with explosives Rank 3: Kill 100 enemies with explosives Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock this rank	002C5556
Dueling	1	Rank 1: Melee weapons do 25% more damage Take 10% less damage while wielding a melee weapon Rank 2: Melee kills make you run 20% faster for 10 seconds Rank 3: Melee weapons do 50% more damage Take 15% less damage while wielding a melee weapon Rank 4: Melee kills heal you for 10% of your health	Rank 1: Kill 20 enemies with a melee weapon Rank 2: Kill 50 enemies with a melee weapon Rank 3: Kill 100 enemies with a melee weapon Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock this rank	002CFCB0
Heavy Weapons Certification	2	Rank 1: Heavy weapons do 10% more damage Rank 2: Heavy weapons do 20% more damage Rank 3: Heavy weapons do 30% more damage Rank 4: Gain 25% Physical resistance while aiming down sights with a heavy weapon	Rank 1: Kill 20 enemies with a heavy weapon Rank 2: Kill 50 enemies with a heavy weapon Rank 3: Kill 100 enemies with a heavy weapon Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock this rank	00147E38
Incapacitation	2	Rank 1: EM weapons do 5% more damage Rank 2: EM weapons do 10% more damage Rank 3: EM weapons do 15% more damage Rank 4: EM weapons have a 15% chance to do 300% EM damage	Rank 1: Deal 400 EM damage Rank 2: Deal 1000 EM damage Rank 3: Deal 2500 EM damage Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock this rank	0027DF96
Lasers	1	Rank 1: Laser weapons do 10% more damage Rank 2: Laser weapons do 20% more damage Rank 3: Laser weapons do 30% more damage Rank 4: Laser weapons have a 5% chance to set a target on fire	Rank 1: Kill 20 enemies with a laser weapon Rank 2: Kill 50 enemies with a laser weapon Rank 3: Kill 100 enemies with a laser weapon Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock this rank	002C59DD
Marksmanship	3	Rank 1: Increase critical hit chance with non-automatic ranged weapons by 3% Rank 2: Increase critical hit chance with non-automatic ranged weapons by 8% Rank 3: Increase critical hit chance with non-automatic ranged weapons by 15% Rank 4: Critical hits using a non-automatic ranged weapon without a scope do double damage and those with scopes knock down enemies on the next shot	Rank 1: Deal 10 ranged critical hits Rank 2: Deal 30 ranged critical hits Rank 3: Deal 75 ranged critical hits Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock this rank	002C890B
Particle Beams	2	Rank 1: Particle beam weapons do 10% more damage Rank 2: Particle beam weapons do 20% more damage Rank 3: Particle beam weapons do 30% more damage Rank 4: Particle beam weapons have +5% crit chance	Rank 1: Kill 20 enemies with a particle beam weapon Rank 2: Kill 50 enemies with a particle beam weapon Rank 3: Kill 100 enemies with a particle beam weapon Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock this r	0027BAFD
Pistol Certification	1	Rank 1: Pistols do 10% more damage Rank 2: Pistols do 25% more damage Rank 3: Pistols do 50% more damage Rank 4: Pistol kills grant +25% critical hit chance for 5 seconds	Rank 1: Kill 20 enemies with a pistol Rank 2: Kill 50 enemies with a pistol Rank 3: Kill 100 enemies with a pistol Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock this rank	002080FF
Rapid Reloading	3	Rank 1: Reload Ballistic weapons 30% faster Rank 2: Reload Energy and EM weapons 30% faster Rank 3: Reload Particle Beam weapons 30% faster 50% chance to avoid getting interrupted while reloading Rank 4: Chance on hitting enemies to increase reload speed for all weapons by 50% for 15 seconds	Rank 1: Reload 30 empty magazines Rank 2: Reload 75 empty magazines Rank 3: Reload 150 empty magazines Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock this rank	002C555A
Rifle Certification	2	Rank 1: Rifles do 10% more damage Rank 2: Rifles do 20% more damage Rank 3: Rifles do 30% more damage Rank 4: Reload rifles 30% faster while you're standing still	Rank 1: Kill 20 enemies with a rifle Rank 2: Kill 50 enemies with a rifle Rank 3: Kill 100 enemies with a rifle Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock this rank	002CE2E0
Sharpshooting	4	Rank 1: Increase headshot critical damage by 50% with ranged weapons Rank 2: Increase critical damage to enemy legs by 50% with ranged weapons Rank 3: Increase all critical damage to enemies by 50% with ranged weapons Rank 4: Ranged critical hit kills increase your critical hit chance with all ranged weapons by 25% for 20 seconds	Rank 1: Deal 50 ranged critical hits Rank 2: Deal 125 ranged critical hits Rank 3: Deal 250 ranged critical hits Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock this rank	002C53AF
Shotgun Certification	1	Rank 1: Shotguns do 10% more damage Rank 2: Shotguns do 20% more damage Rank 3: Shotguns do 30% more damage Rank 4: Shotgun kills grant a small chance to stun additional targets with shotguns for a limited time	Rank 1: Kill 20 enemies with a shotgun Rank 2: Kill 50 enemies with a shotgun Rank 3: Kill 100 enemies with a shotgun Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock this rank	0027DF97
Sniper Certification	3	Rank 1: Scoped weapons are steadier and have less sway Rank 2: You can hold your breath longer with scoped weapons Rank 3: Headshots while aiming with a scoped weapon have a +25% critical hit chance Rank 4: Scoped weapons do 50% more damage while using the scope	Rank 1: Kill 50 enemies using a scoped weapon Rank 2: Kill 125 enemies using a scoped weapon Rank 3: Kill 250 enemies using a scoped weapon Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock this rank	002C53B1
Targeting	3	Rank 1: Increased accuracy and range when shooting without aiming Marks up to one enemy within 25m that damages you Rank 2: Notably increased accuracy and range when shooting without aiming Marks up to two enemies within 50m that damage you Rank 3: Greatly increased accuracy and range when shooting without aiming Marks up to three enemies within 75m that damage you Rank 4: 10% chance to disarm targets hit when shooting without aiming Marks up to four enemies within 100m that damage you	Rank 1: Kill 50 enemies without aiming with a ranged weapon Rank 2: Kill 150 enemies without aiming with a ranged weapon Rank 3: Kill 250 enemies without aiming with a ranged weapon Rank 4: Complete the previous rank c	002C59DA

Science Skills

Starfield has 16 Science Skills that help with scanning, surveying, resource collection, crafting, outpost construction and healing abilities.

Which science skills you decide to prioritise will depend on which features of the game you want to focus on first. For example, both Weapon Engineering Skill and Spacesuit Design Skill are easy to level up early to unlock the best weapon mods that improve your weapon damage.

For guidance on the fastest way to level up to rank 4 by quickly completing each skill challenge click the skills name below for a quick guide.

Name	Tier	Benefits	Challenge	Skill ID
Aneutronic Fusion	4	Rank 1: Ship reactors produce 1 extra unit of power Rank 2: Ship reactors produce 2 extra units of power Rank 3: Ship reactors produce 3 extra units of power Rank 4: Ship reactors produce 5 extra units of power	Rank 1: Destroy 5 ships Rank 2: Destroy 25 ships Rank 3: Destroy 50 ships Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock this rank	002C2C5A
Astrodynamics	1	Rank 1: Increase grav jump range of jump drives by 15% Rank 2: Reduced fuel cost of jump drives by 15% Rank 3: Increased grav jump range and reduced fuel cost of jump drives by 30% Rank 4: Reduced fuel cost of jump drives by 50%	Rank 1: Make 5 grav jumps Rank 2: Make 15 grav jumps Rank 3: Make 30 grav jumps Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock this rank	002C5560
Astrophysics	3	Rank 1: You can scan the moons of your current planet You have a 10% chance to discover a trait when scanning Rank 2: You can scan any planet or moon in this system You have a 20% chance to discover a trait when scanning Rank 3: You can scan any planet or moon within 16 Light Years You have a 30% chance to discover a trait when scanning Rank 4: You can scan any planet or moon within 30 Light Years You have a 50% chance to discover a trait when scanning	Rank 1: Scan 10 unique planets or moons Rank 2: Scan 25 unique planets or moons Rank 3: Scan 50 unique planets or moons Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock this rank	0027CBBB
Botany	2	Rank 1: Get more common and uncommon organic resources from plants, learn additional info about them from the scanner, and allows some plants to be cultivated at your outposts Rank 2: Get more rare organic resources from plants, and learn information about them more quickly using the scanner Rank 3: Get more exotic organic resources from plants, and learn information about them more quickly using the scanner Rank 4: Occasionally harvest additional rarer resources from plants, and learn information about them more quickly using the scanner	Rank 1: Harvest 20 organic resources from plants Rank 2: Harvest 50 organic resources from plants Rank 3: Harvest 100 organic resources from plants Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock this rank	002C5557
Chemistry	3	Rank 1: You can create improved chems, and research additional chems at a Research Lab Rank 2: You can research and create superior chems Rank 3: You can research and create cutting-edge chems Rank 4: Crafting chems occasionally triples the amount created	Rank 1: Create 10 chems Rank 2: Create 25 chems Rank 3: Create 50 chems Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock this rank	002CE2C0
Geology	1	Rank 1: Get more common and uncommon inorganic resources from surface objects Rank 2: Get more rare inorganic resources from surface objects Rank 3: Get more exotic inorganic resources from surface objects Rank 4: Occasionally harvest additional rarer resources from surface objects	Rank 1: Harvest inorganic resources from 20 sources Rank 2: Harvest inorganic resources from 50 sources Rank 3: Harvest inorganic resources from 100 sources Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock this r	002CE29F
Medicine	1	Rank 1: Med Packs, Trauma Packs, and Emergency Kits restore 10% additional Health 10% faster Rank 2: Med Packs, Trauma Packs, and Emergency Kits restore 20% additional Health 20% faster Rank 3: Med Packs, Trauma Packs, and Emergency Kits restore 30% additional Health 30% faster Rank 4: Med Packs, Trauma Packs, and Emergency Kits restore 50% additional Health 50% faster, and have a chance to cure an affliction	Rank 1: Use healing items 20 times while wounded Rank 2: Use healing items 50 times while wounded Rank 3: Use healing items 100 times while wounded Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock this rank	002CE2DF
Outpost Engineering	3	Rank 1: You can construct improved outpost modules, and research additional modules at a Research Lab Rank 2: You can research and construct superior outpost modules Rank 3: You can research and construct cutting-edge outpost modules Rank 4: Outpost modules now cost 50% fewer resources to build	Rank 1: Build 5 different outpost modules Rank 2: Build 25 different outpost modules Rank 3: Build 50 different outpost modules Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock this rank	002C59E0
Planetary Habitation	4	Rank 1: You can build outposts on planets with extreme temperatures (Deep Freeze and Inferno) Increase the maximum number of Outposts you can build by 4 Rank 2: Rank 1: You can build outposts on planets with extreme pressure, Increase the maximum number of Outposts you can build by 8 Rank 3: You can build outposts on planets with toxic or corrosive atmospheres Increase the maximum number of Outposts you can build by 12 Rank 4: You can build outposts on planets with extreme gravity Increase the maximum number of Outposts you can build by 16	Rank 1: Build habitable outposts on 3 different planets Rank 2: Build habitable outposts on 5 different planets Rank 3: Build habitable outposts on 10 different planets Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to u	0027CBC2
Research Methods	1	Rank 1: Resources required to craft items and complete research projects is reduced by 10% Rank 2: Resources required to craft items and complete research projects is reduced by 20% Rank 3: Resources required to craft items and complete research projects is reduced by 40% Rank 4: Sudden developments during research are twice as common Resources required to craft items and complete research projects is reduced by 60%	Rank 1: Craft 5 unique food, drinks, drugs, weapon mods, or equipment mods Rank 2: Craft 10 unique food, drinks, drugs, weapon mods, or equipment mods Rank 3: Craft 15 unique food, drinks, drugs, weapon mods, or equipment mods<b	002C555C
Scanning	2	Rank 1: Rank 1: You can detect uncommon inorganic resources on planet and moon surfaces, and more information about ships in space Rank 2: You can detect rare inorganic resources on planet and moon surfaces, and more specific information about ships in space Rank 3: You can detect exotic inorganic resources on planet and moon surfaces, and gain better combat information on ships in space Rank 4: You can detect unique inorganic resources on planet and moon surfaces, and gain a complete list of cargo on ships in space	Rank 1: Scan 5 planets or moons Rank 2: Scan 15 planets or moons Rank 3: Scan 30 planets or moons Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock this rank	002CFCB1
Spacesuit Design	2	Rank 1: You can craft improved spacesuit, helmet, and pack mods, and research additional mods at a Research Lab Rank 2: You can research and craft superior spacesuit, helmet, and pack mods Rank 3: You can research and craft cutting-edge spacesuit, helmet, and pack mods Rank 4: Construction of spacesuit, helmet, and pack mods occasionally doesn't cost resources	Rank 1: Craft 5 spacesuit, helmet, or pack mods Rank 2: Craft 15 spacesuit, helmet, or pack mods Rank 3: Craft 30 spacesuit, helmet, or pack mods Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock this rank	0027CBC3
Special Projects	4	Rank 1: You can research experimental projects at a Research Lab Rank 2: You can craft rare manufactured components at an Industrial Workbench Rank 3: You can craft exotic manufactured components at an Industrial Workbench Rank 4: You can craft unique manufactured components at an Industrial Workbench Outpost extractors have a chance to produce additional resources	Rank 1: Craft 10 common or uncommon manufactured components Rank 2: Craft 10 rare manufactured components Rank 3: Craft 10 exotic manufactured components Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock this rank	0004CE2D
Surveying	1	Rank 1: Adds an optional zoom to the hand scanner, and scan distance is increased to 20 meters Rank 2: Adds another level of zoom to the hand scanner, and scan distance is increased to 30 meters Rank 3: Adds another level of zoom to the hand scanner, and scan distance is increased to 40 meters Rank 4: Adds another level of zoom to the hand scanner, and scan distance is increased to 50 meters	Rank 1: Use the hand scanner to scan 10 unique resources, flora, or fauna Rank 2: Use the hand scanner to scan 25 unique resources, flora, or fauna Rank 3: Use the hand scanner to scan 50 unique resources, flora, or fauna	0027CBC1
Weapon Engineering	2	Rank 1: You can craft improved weapon mods at a Weapon Workbench, and research additional weapon mods at a Research Lab Rank 2: You can research and craft superior weapon mods Rank 3: You can research and craft cutting-edge weapon mods Rank 4: You can research and craft master-level weapon mods	Rank 1: Craft 5 weapon mods Rank 2: Craft 15 weapon mods Rank 3: Craft 30 weapon mods Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock this rank	002C890C
Zoology	2	Rank 1: Get more common organic resources from creatures and harvest from them without harming them, learn additional info about them from the scanner, and allows you to produce animal resources at your outposts Rank 2: Get more uncommon organic resources from creatures, and learn information about them more quickly using the scanner Rank 3: Get more rare organic resources from creatures, and learn information about them more quickly using the scanner Rank 4: Occasionally harvest additional rarer resources from creatures, and learn information about them more quickly using the scanner	Rank 1: Harvest organic resources from 20 creatures Rank 2: Harvest organic resources from 50 creatures Rank 3: Harvest organic resources from 100 creatures Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock this r	002C5552

Social Skills

Starfield has 16 Social Skills that help with convincing other NPC’s, commanding crew, managing outposts, trading goods, theft, scavenging, relationships, using Flora and Fauna. Gameplay mechanics such as pickpocketing can only be used by unlocking the Theft Skill.

Some Social Skills like Commerce are useful throughout Starfields gameplay and worth picking up early on to maximise the number of credits you earn.

Name	Tier	Benefits	Challenge	Skill ID
Commerce	1	Rank 1: Buy for 5% less and sell for 10% more Rank 2: Buy for 10% less and sell for 15% more Rank 3: Buy for 15% less and sell for 20% more Rank 4: Buy for 20% less and sell for 25% more	Rank 1: Buy or sell 25 unique items Rank 2: Buy or sell 75 unique items Rank 3: Buy or sell 150 unique items Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock this rank	002C5A8E
Deception	2	Rank 1: Ships 10% stronger will automatically surrender to piracy demands. Enemy contraband scans are 10% less effective Rank 2: Ships 20% stronger will automatically surrender to piracy demands. Enemy contraband scans are 20% less effective Rank 3: Ships 30% stronger will automatically surrender to piracy demands. Enemy contraband scans are 30% less effective Rank 4: Ships 50% stronger will automatically surrender to piracy demands. Enemy contraband scans are 50% less effective	Rank 1: Convince 5 ships to surrender Rank 2: Convince 10 ships to surrender Rank 3: Convince 20 ships to surrender Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock this rank	002CFCAF
Diplomacy	2	Rank 1: You can force a target NPC at or below your level to stop fighting for a while Rank 2: You can force a target NPC up to 10 levels higher than you to stop fighting for a while Rank 3: You can force a target NPC up to 20 levels higher than you to stop fighting for a while Rank 4: You can force target NPCs to permanently stop fighting (unless they're attacked again)	Rank 1: Successfully use Diplomacy on 5 different people Rank 2: Successfully use Diplomacy on 25 different people Rank 3: Successfully use Diplomacy on 50 different people Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge	002C59E1
Gastronomy	1	Rank 1: You can craft specialty food and drinks, and research additional recipes at a Research Lab Rank 2: You can research and craft gourmet food and drinks Rank 3: You can research and craft food and drink delicacies Rank 4: Crafting food and drinks occasionally doesn't use up resources You can research and craft exotic recipes	Rank 1: Create 5 food or drink items Rank 2: Create 25 food or drink items Rank 3: Create 50 food or drink items Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock this rank	002C5A94
Instigation	3	Rank 1: You can force a target NPC at or below your level to attack their allies for a limited time Rank 2: You can force a target NPC up to 10 levels higher than you to attack their allies for a limited time Rank 3: You can force a target NPC up to 20 levels higher than you to attack their allies for a limited time Rank 4: Enemies affected by Instigation will attack their allies until they are dead	Rank 1: Successfully Instigate 5 different people Rank 2: Successfully Instigate 25 different people Rank 3: Successfully Instigate 50 different people Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock this rank	002C555D
Intimidation	2	Rank 1: You can force a target NPC at or below your level to flee for a limited time Rank 2: You can force a target NPC up to 10 levels higher than you to flee for a limited time Rank 3: You can force a target NPC up to 20 levels higher than you to flee for a limited time Rank 4: Intimidated targets now flee for a substantial amount of time	Rank 1: Successfully Intimidate 5 different people Rank 2: Successfully Intimidate 25 different people Rank 3: Successfully Intimidate 50 different people Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock this ran	002C59DE
Isolation	2	Rank 1: Do +10% weapon damage and gain 15 Damage Resistance for each Spacesuit and Helmet equipped when you don't have a companion or any crew Rank 2: Do +20% weapon damage and gain 30 Damage Resistance for each Spacesuit and Helmet equipped when you don't have a companion or any crew Rank 3: Do +30% weapon damage and gain 45 Damage Resistance for each Spacesuit and Helmet equipped when you don't have a companion or any crew Rank 4: Do +40% weapon damage and gain 60 Damage Resistance for each Spacesuit and Helmet equipped when you don't have a companion or any crew	Rank 1: Kill 20 enemies while not in command of a follower Rank 2: Kill 50 enemies while not in command of a follower Rank 3: Kill 100 enemies while not in command of a follower Rank 4: Complete the previous rank chall	002C53AE
Leadership	3	Rank 1: Companions gain affinity 25% faster Rank 2: Companions have 50 more health and 50kg more carrying capacity Rank 3: Companions will occasionally heal you when you get low health Rank 4: Doubles the bonuses of Combat and Physical Crew Skills on Companions. Companions have a chance to pick themselves up from a downed state	Rank 1: Sprint 1000 meters with an active follower Rank 2: Sprint 2500 meters with an active follower Rank 3: Sprint 5000 meters with an active follower Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock this rank	002C890D
Manipulation	4	Rank 1: You can force a target NPC at or below your level to obey commands for a limited time Rank 2: You can force a target NPC up to 10 levels higher than you to obey commands for a limited time Rank 3: You can force a target NPC up to 20 levels higher than you to obey commands for a limited time Rank 4: Manipulated targets now obey commands for a substantial amount of time	Rank 1: Successfully Manipulate 5 different people Rank 2: Successfully Manipulate 25 different people Rank 3: Successfully Manipulate 50 different people Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock this ran	002C5555
Negotiation	2	Rank 1: You now have access to Bribery in speech challenges Rank 2: Reduces bribery cost by 25% Rank 3: Reduces bribery cost by 50% Rank 4: Occasionally, bribery won't cost any money	Rank 1: Bribe 3 times through persuasion Rank 2: Bribe 5 times through persuasion Rank 3: Bribe 10 times through persuasion Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock this rank	002C555F
Outpost Management	3	Rank 1: Additional cargo links can be placed at outposts Rank 2: Additional robots can be constructed at outposts Rank 3: Additional crew can be assigned at outposts Rank 4: Outpost extractors produce twice as fast	Rank 1: Build cargo links on 6 different planets Rank 2: Build cargo links on 8 different planets Rank 3: Build cargo links on 10 different planets Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock this rank	0023826F
Persuasion	1	Rank 1: 10% increased chance of success when persuading someone Rank 2: 20% increased chance of success when persuading someone Rank 3: 30% increased chance of success when persuading someone Rank 4: 50% increased chance of success when persuading someone	Rank 1: Succeed in 3 speech challenges Rank 2: Succeed in 5 speech challenges Rank 3: Succeed in 10 speech challenges Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock this rank	0022EC82
Scavenging	1	Rank 1: There's a chance you'll find extra credits when searching containers Rank 2: There's a chance you'll find extra ammo when searching containers Rank 3: There's a chance you'll find extra aid items, like Med Packs or chems, when searching containers Rank 4: Tracked resources will get highlighted when using the hand scanner	Rank 1: Loot 25 containers Rank 2: Loot 75 containers Rank 3: Loot 150 containers Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock this rank	0028B853
Ship Command	4	Rank 1: You can have up to four active crew members Rank 2: You can have up to five active crew members Rank 3: You can have up to six active crew members Rank 4: You can have up to eight active crew members	Rank 1: Destroy or board 5 ships with a crew of two or more Rank 2: Destroy or board 25 ships with a crew of two or more Rank 3: Destroy or board 50 ships with a crew of two or more Rank 4: Complete the previous rank c	002C53B3
Theft	1	Rank 1: Unlock the ability to pickpocket targets Rank 2: 10% greater chance to successfully pickpocket Rank 3: 30% greater chance to successfully pickpocket Rank 4: 50% greater chance to successfully pickpocket Can now pickpocket holstered weapons	Rank 1: Successfully pickpocket 5 times Rank 2: Successfully pickpocket 10 times Rank 3: Successfully pickpocket 20 times Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock this rank	002C555B
Xenosociology	4	Rank 1: You can force a target alien creature up to 10 levels higher than you to stop fighting for a limited time Rank 2: You can force a target alien creature up to 10 levels higher than you to flee for a limited time Rank 3: You can force a target alien creature up to 10 levels higher than you to attack their allies for a limited time Rank 4: You can force a target creature up to 10 levels higher than you to obey commands for a limited time	Rank 1: Successfully use Pacify on 15 different aliens Rank 2: Successfully use Flee on 15 different aliens Rank 3: Successfully use Frenzy on 15 different aliens Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock	002C53B0

Tech Skills

Starfield has 17 Tech Skills, the majority improve ship capabilities from ship weapon systems to shields.

The best science skills to priortise early are the Boost Pack Training Skill which unlocks the jetpack mechanic which is crucial for navigating the environment quickly. And the Security Skill which allows the player to unlock harder levelled locks, some of which houses the best legendary weapons and Armor Sets in the game.

For guidance on the fastest way to level up to rank 4 by quickly completing each skill challenge click the skills name below for a quick guide.

Name	Tier	Benefits	Challenge	Skill ID
Automated Weapon Systems	4	Rank 1: Automated ship weapons do 10% more damage and reduce all targeting mode costs by 20% Rank 2: Automated ship weapons do 20% more damage and reduce all targeting mode costs by 30% Your ship takes 20% less damage while in targeting mode Rank 3: Automated ship weapons do 30% more damage and reduce all targeting mode costs by 40% Increases crit chance against targeted sub-systems by 20% Rank 4: Ship turret weapons recharge 40% faster and do 20% more damage to targeted sub-systems	Rank 1: Deal 1000 damage to enemy ships with automated turret weapons Rank 2: Deal 4000 damage to enemy ships with automated turret weapons Rank 3: Deal 10000 damage to enemy ships with automated turret weapons	0027B9ED
Ballistic Weapon Systems	1	Rank 1: Ballistic ship weapons have 10% increased damage and cost 20% less to use in Targeting Mode Rank 2: Ballistic ship weapons have 20% increased damage and recharge 15% faster Rank 3: Ballistic ship weapons have 30% increased damage and recharge 30% faster Rank 4: Ballistic ship weapons do 50% more damage to individual systems	Rank 1: Deal 1000 damage to enemy ships with ballistic weapons Rank 2: Deal 4000 damage to enemy ships with ballistic weapons Rank 3: Deal 10000 damage to enemy ships with ballistic weapons Rank 4: Complete the previou	002CE2C2
Boost Assault Training	4	Rank 1: Nearby enemies take damage when you boost and have a chance to catch on fire Rank 2: Chance to knockdown nearby enemies when you boost Rank 3: Aiming down sights while boosting will let you hover in place Fuel is still expended until empty Rank 4: While hovering, time slows down and the world moves 70% slower around you	Rank 1: Deal 200 damage to enemies using the boost pack Rank 2: Knockdown 20 enemies with a boost Rank 3: Deal 500 damage to enemies using the boost pack Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock this rank	0008C3EE
Boost Pack Training	1	Rank 1: You can now utilize boost packs Rank 2: Using a boost pack expends less fuel Rank 3: Boost pack fuel regenerates more quickly Rank 4: Doubles previous bonuses	Rank 1: Boost jump 10 times while in combat Rank 2: Boost jump 25 times while in combat Rank 3: Boost jump 50 times while in combat Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock this rank	00146C2C
EM Weapon Systems	4	Rank 1: EM ship weapons have 10% increased damage and cost 15% less to use in Targeting Mode Rank 2: EM ship weapons have 20% increased damage and cost 30% less to use in Targeting Mode Rank 3: EM ship weapons have 30% increased damage and cost 45% less to use in Targeting Mode Rank 4: EM ship weapons have a small chance of instantly disabling enemy engines	Rank 1: Deal 1000 damage to enemy ships with EM weapons Rank 2: Deal 4000 damage to enemy ships with EM weapons Rank 3: Deal 10000 damage to enemy ships with EM weapons Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to u	002C53B2
Energy Weapon Systems	2	Rank 1: Energy ship weapons have 10% increased damage and cost 15% less to use in Targeting Mode Rank 2: Energy ship weapons have 20% increased damage and cost 30% less to use in Targeting Mode Rank 3: Energy ship weapons have 30% increased damage and cost 45% less to use in Targeting Mode Rank 4: Energy ship weapons recharge 30% faster	Rank 1: Deal 1000 damage to enemy ships with Energy weapons Rank 2: Deal 4000 damage to enemy ships with Energy weapons Rank 3: Deal 10000 damage to enemy ships with Energy weapons Rank 4: Complete the previous rank ch	002C59DB
Engine Systems	2	Rank 1: Your ship's top speed is increased by 10% Rank 2: Ship boosts last longer and the cooldown is shorter Rank 3: Your ship's top speed is increased by 20% Rank 4: While boosting, all enemies disengage the player and can only reacquire them as a target after the player stops boosting	Rank 1: Boost 5 times with your spaceship while in combat Rank 2: Boost 25 times with your spaceship while in combat Rank 3: Boost 50 times with your spaceship while in combat Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challen	002CE2DE
Missile Weapon Systems	3	Rank 1: Ship missile weapons do 10% more damage, and their Targeting mode cost is reduced by 20% Rank 2: Ship missile weapons do 20% more damage, and their Targeting mode cost is reduced by 40% Rank 3: Ship missile weapons do 30% more damage, and their Targeting mode cost is reduced by 60% Rank 4: Ship missiles have a 20% increased Range, Travel Speed, and Reload Speed	Rank 1: Deal 1000 damage to enemy ships with missile weapons Rank 2: Deal 4000 damage to enemy ships with missile weapons Rank 3: Deal 10000 damage to enemy ships with missile weapons Rank 4: Complete the previous rank	002C5558
Particle Beam Weapon Systems	3	Rank 1: Ship particle beam weapons do 10% more damage, and Targeting mode cost is reduced by 10% Rank 2: Ship particle beam weapons do 20% more damage, and Targeting mode cost is reduced by 20% Rank 3: Ship particle beam weapons do 30% more damage, and Targeting mode cost is reduced by 30% Rank 4: Increased critical hit chance with ship particle beam weapons	Rank 1: Deal 1000 damage to enemy ships with particle beam weapons Rank 2: Deal 4000 damage to enemy ships with particle beam weapons Rank 3: Deal 10000 damage to enemy ships with particle beam weapons Rank 4: Complete	002C2C5B
Payloads	2	Rank 1: Ship cargo holds have 10% more capacity Rank 2: Ship cargo holds have 20% more capacity Rank 3: Ship cargo holds have 30% more capacity Rank 4: Ship cargo holds have 50% more capacity	Rank 1: Make 10 grav jumps with 75% or more of Maximum cargo capacity Rank 2: Make 25 grav jumps with 75% or more of Maximum cargo capacity Rank 3: Make 50 grav jumps with 75% or more of Maximum cargo capacity Rank 4:	00143B6B
Piloting	1	Rank 1: You can now utilize ship thrusters Rank 2: Increased ship turning rate and maneuverability Rank 3: Unlock the ability to pilot Class B ships Rank 4: Unlock the ability to pilot Class C ships	Rank 1: Destroy 5 ships Rank 2: Destroy 15 ships Rank 3: Destroy 30 ships Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock this rank	002CFCAC
Robotics	3	Rank 1: You deal 10% more damage to robots and Turrets. You can force a target robot up to 10 levels higher than you to stop fighting for a limited time Rank 2: You deal 20% more damage to robots and Turrets. You can force a target robot up to 10 levels higher than you to flee for a limited time Rank 3: You deal 30% more damage to robots and Turrets. You can force a target roBot up to 10 levels higher than you to attack their allies for a limited time Rank 4: You can force a target robot up to 10 levels higher than you to obey commands for a limited time	Rank 1: Destroy 5 robots Rank 2: Destroy 25 robots Rank 3: Destroy 50 robots Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock this rank	002C5553
Security	1	Rank 1: You can attempt to hack Advanced locks, and 2 auto attempts can be banked Rank 2: You can attempt to hack Expert locks, and 3 auto attempts can be banked. Rings now turn blue when the pick can be slotted Rank 3: You can attempt to hack Master-level locks, and 4 auto attempts can be banked Rank 4: Expend a digipick to eliminate keys that aren't required to solve the puzzle. 5 auto attempts can be banked	Rank 1: Pick 5 locks Rank 2: Pick 15 locks Rank 3: Pick 30 locks Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock this rank	002CE2E2
Shield Systems	2	Rank 1: Your ship has 20% increased shield capacity Rank 2: Your ship has 40% increased shield capacity Rank 3: Your ship has 60% increased shield capacity Rank 4: Your shields will occasionally resist 100% of all damage received	Rank 1: Take 150 shield damage Rank 2: Take 350 shield damage Rank 3: Take 750 shield damage Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock this rank	002C2C59
Starship Design	3	Rank 1: Allows the installation of improved ship modules Rank 2: Allows the installation of superior ship modules Rank 3: Allows the installation of cutting-edge ship modules Rank 4: Allows the installation of experimental ship modules	Rank 1: Install 5 unique ship modules Rank 2: Install 15 unique ship modules Rank 3: Install 30 unique ship modules Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock this rank	002C59DC
Starship Engineering	3	Rank 1: All ship systems repair 10% faster Rank 2: Ship systems have 25% increased damage mitigation Rank 3: All ship systems repair 25% faster Rank 4: Occasionally, repairing one block of a system will repair the entire system	Rank 1: Use 5 ship repair kits Rank 2: Use 10 ship repair kits Rank 3: Use 15 ship repair kits Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock this rank	002AC953
Targeting Control Systems	1	Rank 1: Unlocks ship targeting functionality Rank 2: Time to lock onto enemy ships is reduced by 15%. Target-locked ships fire at you 25% slower Rank 3: Time to lock onto enemy ships is reduced by 30%. You have a 10% increased chance of critically hitting a target-locked ship Rank 4: Time to lock onto enemy ships is reduced by 60%. Deal 20% increased system damage in targeting mode	Rank 1: Destroy 5 enemy ships while in targeting mode Rank 2: Destroy 15 enemy ships while in targeting mode Rank 3: Destroy 30 enemy ships while in targeting mode Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock	002C5559

Physical Skills

Starfield has 16 Physical Skills that focus on improving the players base stats and abilities: total health, carry weight, environmental and physical damage resistance. Unlocking the Stealth Skill is the only way of seeing if you are hidden or not when attempting to sneak.

For guidance on the fastest way to level up to rank 4 by quickly completing each skill challenge click the skills name below for a quick guide.

Name	Tier	Benefits	Challenge	Skill ID
Boxing	1	Rank 1: Unarmed attacks do 25% more damage 25% less 02 used when using a power attack Rank 2: Unarmed attacks do 50% more damage 50% less 02 used when using a power attack Rank 3: Unarmed attacks do 75% more damage While in a fight and unarmed, running consumes 30% less 02 Rank 4: Unarmed attacks do 100% more damage and have a chance to knock down opponents	Rank 1: Kill 20 enemies with an unarmed attack Rank 2: Kill 50 enemies with an unarmed attack Rank 3: Kill 100 enemies with an unarmed attack Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock this rank	002C59DF
Cellular Regeneration	3	Rank 1: Slightly increased chance to recover from injuries naturally Rank 2: Moderately increased chance to recover from injuries naturally Rank 3: Noticeably increased chance to recover from injuries naturally Rank 4: 20% chance of not gaining an injury when you otherwise would	Rank 1: Recover from 5 injuries Rank 2: Recover from 10 injuries Rank 3: Recover from 30 injuries Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock this rank	0028AE14
Concealment	4	Rank 1: You no longer set off enemy mines Ranged sneak attacks do 25x normal damage and your melee sneak attacks do 4x normal damage Rank 2: Running while sneaking doesn't affect stealth Ranged sneak attacks do 3x normal damage and your melee sneak attacks do 5x normal damage Rank 3: You gain a Chameleon-like ability when completely still and sneaking Ranged sneak attacks do 35x normal damage and your melee sneak attacks do 8x normal damage Rank 4: Engaging stealth causes distant enemies to lose you Ranged sneak attacks do 4x normal damage and your melee sneak attacks do 10x normal damage	Rank 1: Perform 10 melee/unarmed sneak attacks Rank 2: Perform 30 melee/unarmed sneak attacks Rank 3: Perform 75 melee/unarmed sneak attacks Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock this rank	002C555E
Decontamination	3	Rank 1: Slightly increased chance to recover from infections naturally Rank 2: Moderately increased chance to recover from infections naturally Rank 3: Noticeably increased chance to recover from infections naturally Rank 4: 20% chance of not gaining an infection when you otherwise would	Rank 1: Recover from 5 infections Rank 2: Recover from 15 infections Rank 3: Recover from 30 infections Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock this rank	002CE2A0
Energy Weapon Dissipation	2	Rank 1: Energy damage is reduced by 5% Rank 2: Energy damage is reduced by 10% Rank 3: Energy damage is reduced by 15% Rank 4: 25% chance to reflect energy damage back to an attacker when your health is below 50%	Rank 1: Take 150 points of energy damage Rank 2: Take 350 points of energy damage Rank 3: Take 750 points of energy damage Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock this rank	002C59E2
Environmental Conditioning	2	Rank 1: Gain 10 resistance to Airborne environmental damage Rank 2: Gain 10 resistance to Thermal environmental damage Rank 3: Gain 10 resistance to Corrosive and Radiation environmental damage Rank 4: Reduced chance to gain afflictions from environmental damage sources	Rank 1: Take 100 environmental damage Rank 2: Take 250 environmental damage Rank 3: Take 500 environmental damage Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock this rank	0028AE17
Fitness	1	Rank 1: You have 10% more oxygen available Rank 2: You have 20% more oxygen available Rank 3: You have 30% more oxygen available Rank 4: Sprinting and power attacks now use significantly less oxygen	Rank 1: Use up all available Oxygen 20 times Rank 2: Use up all available Oxygen 50 times Rank 3: Use up all available Oxygen 100 times Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock this rank	002CE2DD
Gymnastics	2	Rank 1: Unlock the ability to combat slide Take 15% less fall damage Rank 2: Move faster in Zero-G Take 20% less fall damage Rank 3: Become more stable while firing in Zero-G Take 30% less fall damage Replenish some 02 after mantling Rank 4: Increased jump height Run faster after combat sliding or mantling	Rank 1: Take 100 fall damage Rank 2: Kill 5 enemies in Zero-G environments Rank 3: Kill 20 enemies in Zero-G environments Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock this rank	0028AE29
Martial Arts	3	Rank 1: 15% increased chance to crit with a melee or unarmed attack Rank 2: 15% chance to disarm an opponent with a melee or unarmed power attack Rank 3: While unarmed or wielding a melee weapon, take 10% less damage Rank 4: Reflect 50% damage back when blocking a melee or unarmed attack	Rank 1: Deal 250 damage with unarmed attacks Rank 2: Disarm 10 enemies using melee or unarmed attacks Rank 3: Disarm 30 enemies using melee or unarmed attacks Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock this	002C5554
Neurostrikes	4	Rank 1: 10% chance to stun an NPC with an unarmed attack Rank 2: Unarmed attacks now do additional EM damage Rank 3: 20% chance to stun an NPC with an unarmed attack Rank 4: After stunning an enemy, you also knock down any enemies within close range	Rank 1: Stun 10 enemies with an unarmed attack Rank 2: Stun 30 enemies with an unarmed attack Rank 3: Stun 75 enemies with an unarmed attack Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock this rank	002C53B4
Nutrition	2	Rank 1: Food and drink are 10% more effective Rank 2: Food and drink are now 20% more effective Rank 3: Food and drink are now 30% more effective Rank 4: Food and drink are now 50% more effective	Rank 1: Consume 10 food or drink items Rank 2: Consume 30 food or drink items Rank 3: Consume 75 food or drink items Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock this rank	002CFCAD
Pain Tolerance	2	Rank 1: Physical damage is reduced by 5% Rank 2: Physical damage is reduced by 10% Rank 3: Physical damage is reduced by 15% Rank 4: 5% chance to ignore physical damage when your health is low	Rank 1: Take 250 points of physical damage Rank 2: Take 500 points of physical damage Rank 3: Take 1000 points of physical damage Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock this rank	002CFCAE
Rejuvenation	4	Rank 1: Slowly regenerate health outside of combat Rank 2: Regenerate health more quickly outside of combat Rank 3: Regenerate health much faster outside of combat You can now slowly regenerate health while in combat Rank 4: Regenerate health even faster outside of combat You can now regenerate health quickly while in combat	Rank 1: Fall below 25% health 3 times and fully heal Rank 2: Fall below 25% health 8 times and fully heal Rank 3: Fall below 25% health 15 times and fully heal Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock thi	0028AE13
Stealth	1	Rank 1: Adds a Stealth Meter You are 25% more difficult to detect when sneaking Suppressed weapons do an additional 5% sneak attack damage Rank 2: Upgrades the Stealth Meter You are 50% more difficult to detect when sneaking Suppressed weapons do an additional 10% sneak attack damage Rank 3: You are 75% more difficult to detect when sneaking Suppressed weapons do an additional 15% sneak attack damage Rank 4: You are 100% more difficult to detect when sneaking Suppressed weapons do an additional 20% sneak attack damage Doors you interact with while in stealth no longer alert enemies	Rank 1: Perform 10 sneak attacks Rank 2: Perform 20 sneak attacks Rank 3: Perform 40 sneak attacks Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock this rank	002CFCB2
Weight Lifting	1	Rank 1: Increase total carrying capacity by 10 kilograms Rank 2: Increase total carrying capacity by 25 kilograms Rank 3: Increase total carrying capacity by 50 kilograms Rank 4: Increase total carrying capacity by 100 kilograms Gain 50% resistance to stagger	Rank 1: Sprint for 1000 meters while at 75% or more of your maximum load capacity Rank 2: Sprint for 2500 meters while at 75% or more of your maximum load capacity Rank 3: Sprint for 5000 meters while at 75% or more of your maxi	002C59D9
Wellness	1	Rank 1: Increase your maximum health by 10% Rank 2: Increase your maximum health by 20% Rank 3: Increase your maximum health by 30% Rank 4: Increase your maximum health by 40%	Rank 1: Heal 200 damage Rank 2: Heal 500 damage Rank 3: Heal 1000 damage Rank 4: Complete the previous rank challenge to unlock this rank	002CE2E1