Having gone through the game a few times now, I find it is usually a good idea to "specialize" your character. Try to get a general idea of how you want him or her to end up and build it from the ground up. For example, go for either technology or magic exclusively. While doing a bit of both can work, you'll find that your character is a bit weak at the later levels.
My first character was an elven magician. I specialized in 2 colleges of magic (conveyance and force) and had 2-3 level 1 spells to boost him as well as some points in throwing. Then it's a matter of boosting good mage stats like willpower and such.
My second character was a dwarf technologist. I concentrated on firearms and explosives. Much more challenging, especially at the beginning, I found it more fun. The mage became very powerful too fast for my taste.
I then tried a character with no combat skills whatsoever. Went for a lot of charisma, followers and master of persuasion. That one was the most fun I had. Some situations you can't talk yourself out of then but then again, that's what followers are for
My last time through, I went with a half-ogre melee fighter. Made him quite dumb to get the funny dialogue options. Had an easy time with him too, although you'll miss out on a few quests because of your low intelligence.
All in all, I figure it's a question of specializing a bit. Don't try to be a jack of all trades or you'll end up being good at nothing and that hurts in this game. Especially towards the end against tougher foes or quests. The pre-generated characters do that for you somewhat, but you miss on the fun of really building a character of your own.
Don't give up on this game. Once you get past it's few mistakes, it's really enjoyable.
Cheers.
first time though
Linear Mode
