There are 2 types of lotro skills which a character can have. Characteristics, or "passive" skills, modify your characters stats while "active" skills are abilities like attacking or harvesting. All characters start out with a set of characteristics which are unique to their race. More characteristics and skills may be acquired as your character gains levels.

Active Skills - Each class has its own unique set of abilities which grow as a character gains levels

Class Skills

Characteristics - Characteristics are found in the "Passive Skills" area of the character window. Types of characteristics will vary with race and class. Following are some of the types of characteristics.

Armour Proficiencies

Base Passive Skills

Combat Characteristics

Crafting Passive Skills

Instrument Proficiencies

Misc. Passive Skills

Weapon Proficiencies

Fellowship Skills