Skills

Skills are player attributes which are leveled up through the use of specific tools or actions, or by reading Books. Each skill has ten levels. A skill level increase is awarded immediately upon earning enough experience points (XP) for a new level, and is immediately displayed on the skills tab of the inventory. The first time the player levels up a skill on each day, they are notified with "You've got some new ideas to sleep on." The new skill level immediately increases the proficiency of the tool(s) associated with that skill. Overnight, after the player goes to bed on the day a skill level increases, a popup announces the increase, and additionally awards knowledge of any applicable crafting or cooking recipes. At level 5 and level 10, players also select which one of two available Professions to specialize in.

Farming

Farming is the skill associated with planting, growing, and harvesting crops on the farm, and also the care of farm animals. It's one of the main income sources for the game, and provides most of the ingredients for cooking.

Mining

Mining is the skill associated with breaking rocks, mainly in the Mines. Larger or more valuable rocks and nodes take more hits, and in some cases, require a stronger Pickaxe to break.

Foraging

Foraging is the skill associated with gathering wild resources found on the ground throughout Stardew Valley, and with chopping down Trees. Foraging skill also increases by harvesting crops grown from Wild Seeds. Most forageables can be found throughout their season. One exception is Salmonberry, which can be found only during Salmonberry Season (Spring 15-18) on bushes around town. Blackberries can be found on the ground during Fall, but during Blackberry Season (Fall 8-11) they can also be found on bushes throughout town.

Fishing

Fishing is a skill associated with catching fish with a fishing rod or by collecting items from crab pots.

Combat

Combat is the skill associated with fighting monsters, such as in The Mines or the Skull Cavern. Combat experience is increased by killing monsters, with more difficult monsters granting more experience. It can also be gained by reading the Combat Quarterly or Book Of Stars. Each increase in Combat Level adds 5 HP (health points) to the player's health meter, with the exceptions of levels 5 and 10. Health points are only increased when levelling up to levels 5 or 10 if the Fighter and Defender professions are chosen. Level-ups may also add Crafting or Cooking recipes. Unlike other skills, there is no proficiency effect from this skill since weapons do not require energy.