Wizards in Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition primarily use Intelligence as their spellcasting ability. This is because wizards learn their spells through dedicated study and rigorous memorization. Whenever a wizard spell refers to your spellcasting ability, you will use your Intelligence score.
The Role of Intelligence for Wizards
Intelligence is crucial for a wizard's effectiveness, directly impacting several key aspects of their magical prowess:
- Spell Attack Rolls: Your Intelligence modifier is added to your proficiency bonus to determine your bonus when making a spell attack. This helps you hit targets with spells like fire bolt or ray of frost.
- Spell Save DC: The difficulty class (DC) for your spells is calculated using your Intelligence modifier. Enemies must roll equal to or higher than this DC to avoid the effects of your spells that require a saving throw, such as fireball or hold person.
- Learning and Preparing Spells: Your Intelligence score is vital for deciphering and adding new spells to your spellbook, as well as preparing your daily selection of spells.
- Skills: Intelligence also governs important skills like Arcana, History, Investigation, Nature, and Religion, which align well with a wizard's scholarly pursuits.
Key Ability Scores for Wizards
While Intelligence is the paramount ability for a wizard, other stats are also important for their overall survivability and effectiveness in adventuring.
| Ability Score | Primary Use for Wizards | Importance |
|---|---|---|
| Intelligence | Spellcasting ability, spell attack rolls, spell save DC, learning spells, knowledge skills | Primary |
| Constitution | Hit points, maintaining concentration on spells, resisting adverse effects | Secondary |
| Dexterity | Armor Class (AC) if not wearing heavy armor, Initiative, Dexterity saving throws | Secondary |
Constitution is important for all characters, including wizards, as it contributes to their hit points, making them more resilient. It also helps them maintain concentration on powerful spells when they take damage. Dexterity is valuable for a wizard's defense, especially since they typically wear light or no armor, as it boosts their Armor Class. It also influences their initiative, determining when they act in combat.
