Selected text from: Book 1 - Characters & Combat.pdf

If a Traveller has no level in a skill at all (Skill -), then he is untrained and will suffer DM-3 when trying to use that skill.

If a Traveller has zero level in a skill (Skill 0), then he is competent in using that skill, but probably has had little experience in actually using it. He does not get any bonus from his skill ranks when using that skill from his rank, but at least avoids the penalty for being untrained.

If a Traveller has one or more levels in a skill (Skill 1, Skill 2, and so on etc.) then he is trained in that skill.

Each level represents several years of experience using that skill, and grants DM+1 per level to all skill checks using that skill.

A Traveller with level 2-3 in a skill is a skilled professional in that field.

A Traveller with level 4 or 5 is probably both well-respected and well-known in his field.

For example, a Traveller with Medic 1 may be a paramedic or nurse,

while another Traveller with Medic 2 might be a doctor.

If a Traveller had Medic 3, they would likely be a very well-regarded doctor with many years of practice under their belt.

A Traveller with Medic 4 or 5 would be at least world-renowned, and may well be known across several star systems for his expertise.

TASK CHECKS

Most actions undertaken by Travellers do not require a skill check.

A player does not have to roll Athletics to run through a forest, or roll Electronics (computers) to access information from his ship’s library.

Some actions will require the Traveller to have a particular skill, but will still not require a roll. A Traveller with Flyer 0, for example, can fly an air/raft under normal conditions without having to make a roll.

The referee should only call for checks when:

● The Travellers are in danger.

● The task is especially difficult or hazardous.

● The Travellers are under the pressure of time.

● Success or failure is especially important or interesting.