So I'm reading up on Skills and skill checks, and it says that for skills that you are not trained in, your modifier is 1d20 + ability modifier + racial modifier. Does that mean that any skill points I put in skills that I am not trained in don't matter?
Thanks in advance. :)
Once you put a rank in, it's trained. That's the definition of trained vs. untrained.
QuidEst is correct. To expand on it, some skills can be attempted untrained (such as swim or climb), some skills need you to have ranks in the skills to attempt it unless some class feature or talent allows you to use such skills untrained (such as knowledge skills).
Adding skill points to gain ranks always matters, at least adding as much as you have ranks in that skill (and the class skill bonus or feat additions, if applicable).
Thanks!