For those of us on a console, what is the best way to level a pure mage? I always give up on them because it seems like I have to sink my points into magicka at every level, and then I become way too weak for the game. One arrow smokes me.

Aside from the attribute points, how do you guys build your pure mages? Skyrim is the first Elder Scrolls game that I cannot seem to get into a pure mage. I think it is because I feel like I have to either cast and run destruction spells which will become too weak at high levels, or sneak in the shadows and fight indirectly through conjuration or illusion - which doesn't seem like much fun at all.

Use bound weapons. Don't know if that wouls still be a pure mage since you are using a combat skill as well.

Use magick armor spells and use all the magick school illusion conjuration destruction alteration and restoration make sure to spend perks on them to.

Yeah, using bound weapons or armor spells are things I have never done. I should, I guess. It just seems that if I level one handed, I don't have enough perks for that, and all the magic schools I want to invest in.

Magic armor is an absolute staple; use it even when you feel lazy!

Alchemy. Make potions that will help boost spells. Also stick to Adept level spells until you have the magicka and other resources for the more cost wasteful but stronger spells.

Make first priority to get magicka around 200 then hp to 150 then mp to 250-300 then hp to 200. I've found that having about 200hp is enough for me. But I've planned to raise it up soon once I get more levels.

I found myself to use alot of conjuration, bound sword is my top used spell at lower levels. You need conjuration to be able to summon creatures to fight for you, summoned creatures takes the heat off from you and that gives you breathing room to heal yourself and attack your enemies.

I'd say focus on conjuration, then to other magic skills.

Creating a mage that focuses on Illusion and Conjuration, is a very powerful duo. With the right strategy one will literally, never get hit. I recently started a pure Destruction mage that only invest in Health. She is focusing on Destruction and Enchanting. Her next goal is to get to 100% spell cost reduction.