How do I track which resources I need for upgrading my workbench?

Tracking which resources you need to upgrade your workbench in Valheim is essential for progressing through the game and unlocking advanced crafting options. The workbench is one of the most important crafting stations, and upgrading it allows you to craft better tools, weapons, and armor. To track the required resources, you need to understand the upgrade tiers, the materials needed for each tier, and how to gather them efficiently.\n\nFirst, you need to know that the workbench has five upgrade levels. Each level requires specific resources and a nearby crafting station or item to unlock the upgrade. For example, upgrading to level 2 requires a chopping block, which is crafted using wood and flint. To see the resources needed for each upgrade, interact with the workbench and hover over the upgrade icon. This will display a list of required materials and the additional station or item needed.\n\nTo gather the necessary resources, you must explore different biomes. For example, wood and flint are found in the Meadows biome, while bronze (made from copper and tin) is obtained by mining in the Black Forest. Leather scraps are dropped by boars, and deer hides are obtained by hunting deer. Each biome has unique resources, so plan your expeditions accordingly. For instance, if you need fine wood for higher-tier upgrades, you must venture into the Black Forest to chop birch or oak trees.\n\nA common challenge is managing inventory space while gathering resources. To solve this, build a cart or use portals to transport materials back to your base. Portals are especially useful for quickly moving between biomes and your base, but they cannot transport metals like copper or tin. For these, you’ll need to use a cart or ship to transport them over long distances.\n\nAnother tip is to keep a checklist of required materials. You can write this down or use the in-game crafting menu as a reference. For example, if you’re upgrading to level 3, you’ll need a tanning rack, which requires wood, flint, leather scraps, and deer hides. By keeping track of what you’ve collected and what you still need, you can avoid unnecessary trips and focus on gathering efficiently.\n\nFinally, always prepare for your resource-gathering expeditions. Bring the right tools, such as a bronze axe for chopping fine wood or a pickaxe for mining ore. Equip yourself with food and armor to survive encounters with enemies. By planning ahead and understanding the upgrade requirements, you can streamline your progress and keep your workbench at its maximum potential.\n\nIn summary, tracking workbench upgrade resources involves understanding the upgrade tiers, exploring biomes for specific materials, and managing your inventory efficiently. Use the in-game crafting menu as a guide, prepare for expeditions, and keep a checklist to stay organized. With these strategies, you’ll be able to upgrade your workbench and unlock advanced crafting options in no time.