Pathing Efficiency: Value per Point
In optimizing your passive tree, you should always consider the Value per Point—how much benefit you’re getting for each passive spent.

For example:

Spending 3 points to Path of exile currency get +30% Spell Damage, +10 INT, and +8% Cast Speed = high value.

Spending 8 points to get +60% Spell Damage with no other benefit = poor efficiency.

Sometimes the nodes between clusters are just filler—things like +10 INT or small 4% increases. These nodes are okay in small doses but quickly become inefficient when stretched across large distances.

How to Measure Value per Point
Use this checklist:

Count the nodes it takes to reach a target cluster.

Add up the total benefit (e.g., total Spell Damage, Crit Chance, etc.).

Divide the total gain by the number of points spent.

Compare it to other options within your existing route.

Tools like Path of Building make this process easier by POE currency for sale showing DPS or defense changes based on each passive you allocate.