User blog comment:Eragon815/Alteration Skill/@comment-2081141-20101227074645

Here's how: Make a shield on self spell at 3pts magnitude and 1sec duration. Draw a weapon, block, and repeatedly cast the spell until you get levels.

And you (Eragon815) are clearly ignorant of the awesome things that can be done with alteration. Ever cast water walking on an enemy, then led them out onto the water until the effect dissipates? Good fun there.

To be honest, most magical disciplines are more useful. Alteration is only handy for opening locks (which the skeleton key or a steady hand does just fine, fortunately I have both) and shielding yourself. Alchemy smashes it to bits.