# How do I use my powers in Skyrim?

> Equip a power from the Magic menu under Powers, then press the shout button (Z on PC, RB on Xbox, R1 on PlayStation) to use it.

In Skyrim, open the Magic menu, go to the **Powers** section and equip the power you want. Powers share a slot with dragon shouts, so you activate them with the shout button: **Z** on PC, **RB** on Xbox and **R1** on PlayStation. Powers don't use Magicka; instead, most can only be used once per day.

## Powers, shouts and spells

| Type | How to use | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| **Greater powers** (racial powers, Standing Stones like the Ritual or Shadow Stone) | Shout button | Once per in-game day |
| **Lesser powers** (some racial and quest powers, e.g. Night Eye) | Shout button | Can be used repeatedly |
| **Shouts** | Shout button | Cooldown after each use; words unlocked with dragon souls |
| **Spells** | Left or right hand (triggers or mouse buttons) | Magicka |

Dragon souls are used to unlock words of shouts — they are not spent when you use a power.

## Step by step

1. Open the menu (Tab on PC, Start/Options on consoles) and choose **Magic**.
2. Select **Powers**.
3. Pick a power and equip it (on PC with Enter or a mouse click; on consoles with the confirm button).
4. Back in the game, press the shout button to use it.
5. For quick access, add powers to **Favorites** (F on PC, or the favorite button on consoles) and switch from the favorites menu.

## Using spells

Spells are equipped to a hand: in the Magic menu, assign a spell to your left or right hand, then press that hand's attack button to cast. Hold the button for spells that charge or stream. With the Dual Casting perk, equipping the same spell in both hands and casting together makes it stronger.

## How Magicka works

Magicka is the blue bar. Every spell costs Magicka, which regenerates over time. Raise it by choosing Magicka at level-ups, wearing gear with Magicka bonuses, or drinking potions. Perks in each school of magic lower spell costs.

## FAQ

**How do you activate spells in Skyrim?**
Equip the spell to a hand in the Magic menu, then press that hand's attack button.

**Do powers use Magicka?**
No. Greater powers recharge once per day; lesser powers can be used freely.

**Where do I get new powers?**
From your race, Standing Stones, quests and some guilds or factions.

**Why can't I use my power again?**
Greater powers can only be used once per in-game day. Wait or sleep until the time has passed.

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https://gamevoyages.com/how-do-i-use-my-powers-in-skyrim/ · Game Voyage · Checked 2026-10-30