For the most efficient build progression, start with the ranged combat skills since precise shooting mechanics become crucial pretty quickly. You'll want to snag focused shot first, it has this brief slow-motion effect that lets you line up perfect headshots which honestly makes a huge difference when ammo's scarce. The timing window is about 3 seconds so make each shot count

The key is watching your skill point investment timing carefully. Grab field repairs from the melee tree right when you start getting decent weapons, usually around 2-3 hours in, since it lets you maintain gear with scrap you find. Just roll with it becomes essential once you start encountering larger groups, the dodge timing is pretty forgiving with a 0. 5 second window but you'll need that stamina reduction

For mid-game progression specifically target crowd control when you hit level 15, it drops focus shot cooldown from 45 to 33 seconds which really helps chain kills together. Hard hitter gives you that sweet 25% melee damage boost making your strikes actually meaningful against armored enemies. The recovery frames after a heavy attack are slightly longer though so watch your timing

Remember to chain stealth takedowns whenever possible, they give 150% normal xp and dont alert nearby enemies if you time the grab right. Maybe interesting - clearing nest zones during daylight hours gives bonus xp and the freakers are 30% slower to react, making precision shots easier while you're still learning the mechanics