I'd say start with a specific elemental affinity first. So, Fire Affinity Level 1 will allow you to use fire spells and fire's basic application (survival wise). You can even further sub categorize to passive and active skills for that respective elemental affinity - fire/heat resistance for passive, and Fire Ball for active/offense skill. Then the list goes on.


EDIT: Goes the same with weapon mastery skills like Sword Mastery, or Bow Mastery. This should allow you to use specific weapons and learn their respective passive and active skills.