Now, I understand about all the percentage stuff, but these potions also say they only last for a certain time, like a minute. Is that real time or what? Is the clock ticking even when you're in alchemy or enchanting mode, or does it only start ticking once you've finished the job? I always took it that the game's clock is paused when you're at either at the alchemy or enchanting tables. This "lasts 60 seconds" thing is just a little confusing.

Enchanting, alchemy and smithing are in real time, except when you are on the enchanting 'name item' page. So as not to waste potions, it helps to activate the lab/altar/bench/grindstone, sort out what you want to do in a dummy run, and exit, then drink the potion and do it for real. You can smith a bunch of stuff, make a bunch of the same potions and maybe make a couple of different potions if you are quick, but reckon on one enchanted item per potion.


[Edit for my own stupidity after a long day at work: Of course there aren't fortify alchemy potions, but time limit is for fortify restoration shenanigans. Where is my mind?]

Take the fortify smithing potion for example, they usally last about 60 seconds and once you slam it it starts counting down. Even when you're at the workbench.