Spell Results The listed spell results are actually just "benchmark" values. The better you are at casting a spell, the better your personal results. In general, the effect of a spell will range between 75% and 125% of the listed ("benchmark") values for that spell. (Direct Damage spells range from 25% to 125%.) The higher your ability with the skill that governs that spell, the higher your personal results. A spell will never produce an effect higher than 125% of the benchmark value, but you can pull the low end from 75% to better han 100%, if you improve the related skill. The skill for each list of spells is given with that list. Specialized spells compare your level of specialization to the level of the spell you're casting. If your level of specialization in no better than half the spell level, you'll tend to get results at the lower end of the range. When you acquire a spell (whether early or late) has no effect on the spell's power  (although the earlier you get it, the weaker you'll probably be with it, untill you gain a few moreee levels/spend a few more specialization points.)