Cataclysm Arcane Mage Build

Although Arcane Builds are considered by many to be the Highest Damage Build, in large data samples from raid damage meters, they often lag behind other builds.  This could be a mana issue but it is hard to say for sure. Regardless, it is definitely higher on trash or anything with AoE potential.  Cataclysm brought many changes but for anyone exploring the Arcane Tree, these talents are a must:


Clearcasting
Netherwind Presence
Improved Arcane missiles
Missile Barrage
Torment the Weak
Presence of Mind
Improved Mana gem
Arcane Power
Piercing Ice
Master of Elements

Arcane Flows
Arcane Tactics

Slow
Arcane Potency

Focus Magic

Arcane Mage Glyphs

Primary: Arcane Missile, Arcane Blast, Mage Armor

Major: Invisibility, Slow, Arcane Power

Minor: Slow Fall, Mirror Image

Arcane Mage Rotation

In a long fight, mana is a big issue.  The idea is to gauge your gear for mana regen and come up with a way to due consistent damage between evocation cooldowns.  So, a good rotatoin would be Arcane Blast 4 times and then Arcane Missiles.  You can burn through the first 60% of mana with your highest DPS spells and then hope switch to that rotation which is pretty standard.

Sample Cataclysm Arcane Mage Build