How to Calculate Attack Bonus 5e: A Comprehensive Guide for Players
Greetings, Readers!
Welcome to this comprehensive guide on calculating your attack bonus in Dungeons & Dragons Fifth Edition (5e). Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a newcomer to the realm, understanding this crucial mechanic will empower your character on the battlefield.
Determining Your Base Attack Bonus
Your base attack bonus (BAB) serves as the foundation for all subsequent modifiers. It depends on your character’s level and class. Refer to the Player’s Handbook for the specific BAB progression table.
Ability Score Modifiers
Your attack bonus is also influenced by your ability scores. For melee attacks, you add your Strength modifier. For ranged attacks, you add your Dexterity modifier. You can find the modifier corresponding to each ability score in the table below.
| Ability Score | Modifier |
|---|---|
| 10 | -1 |
| 12 | +1 |
| 14 | +2 |
| 16 | +3 |
| 18 | +4 |
| 20 | +5 |
Proficiency Bonus
As you level up, you gain a proficiency bonus. This bonus applies to all ability checks and saving throws, including attack rolls. Refer to the Player’s Handbook for the proficiency bonus progression table.
Weapon Modifiers
Different weapons have specific attack bonuses. This information is typically found in their descriptions in the Player’s Handbook or other sourcebooks.
Situational Modifiers
In addition to the above, situational modifiers can affect your attack bonus. These include:
Advantage: You roll 2d20 for your attack roll and choose the higher result.
Disadvantage: You roll 2d20 for your attack roll and choose the lower result.
Cover: Depending on the level of cover, you may receive a penalty to your attack bonus.
Example Calculation
Let’s say you’re a level 5 fighter with a Strength score of 16 and a proficiency bonus of +2. You’re wielding a longsword (attack bonus +1).
- Base Attack Bonus: +3 (from level)
- Ability Score Modifier: +3 (Strength)
- Proficiency Bonus: +2
- Weapon Modifier: +1 (longsword)
Total Attack Bonus: +3 +3 +2 +1 = +9
Conclusion
Calculating your attack bonus in Dungeons & Dragons 5e is a key part of combat. By understanding the various factors involved, you can ensure that your character is delivering the most effective attacks possible.
Don’t forget to check out our other articles on optimizing your D&D combat strategy, including:
FAQ about How to Calculate Attack Bonus 5e
1. What is an attack bonus?
An attack bonus is a numerical value added to a character’s attack rolls to determine whether an attack hits its target.
2. How do I calculate my attack bonus?
Your attack bonus is equal to your ability modifier (Strength or Dexterity, depending on the weapon) plus your proficiency bonus (if you are proficient with the weapon).
3. What is an ability modifier?
An ability modifier is a number that represents your character’s natural ability in a particular area. It is calculated as (ability score – 10) / 2, rounded down.
4. What is a proficiency bonus?
A proficiency bonus is a number that represents your character’s training and experience in a particular skill or tool. It increases as your character levels up.
5. How do I know if I am proficient with a weapon?
You are proficient with a weapon if you have training in it, such as through your class, background, or feats.
6. What if my ability modifier or proficiency bonus is negative?
If either your ability modifier or proficiency bonus is negative, it is subtracted from your attack bonus.
7. Can I add other modifiers to my attack bonus?
Yes, sometimes you can add other modifiers to your attack bonus, such as a magic weapon bonus or a situational bonus.
8. How do I roll an attack roll?
To roll an attack roll, you roll a d20 and add your attack bonus. If the result is equal to or higher than the armor class (AC) of your target, the attack hits.
9. Can I attack multiple targets in a turn?
Yes, but you will suffer disadvantage on your attack rolls against all targets after the first.
10. What does disadvantage mean?
Disadvantage means that you roll two d20s and take the lower result.
