For a 1st-level wizard in Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition, you can have six 1st-level spells.
At the onset of your journey as a spellcaster, specifically as a wizard, your initial spellcasting capabilities are clearly defined. Your ability to wield magic at 1st level is primarily centered around your spellbook, which serves as the repository for your learned arcane knowledge.
Understanding Your Initial Spell Repertoire
When you create a 1st-level wizard character, your magical foundation is established with a specific number of spells:
- Cantrips: You begin by knowing three cantrips of your choice from the wizard spell list. Cantrips are spells that can be cast at will, without expending a spell slot, and they increase in power as you gain levels.
- 1st-Level Spells: Your personal spellbook, an essential tool for any wizard, starts with six 1st-level wizard spells of your choice. These spells require the expenditure of a 1st-level spell slot to be cast.
This foundational set of spells allows a 1st-level wizard to have a versatile range of options for combat, utility, and roleplaying, ensuring they are prepared for the challenges that lie ahead.
Wizard Spell Acquisition at 1st Level
The table below summarizes the number of initial spells for a 1st-level wizard:
| Spell Type | Quantity at 1st Level (Wizard) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Cantrips | 3 | Known spells that can be cast at will (0-level spells), chosen from the wizard spell list. |
| 1st-Level Spells | 6 | Spells contained in your spellbook, requiring a 1st-level spell slot to cast, chosen from the wizard spell list. |
It's important to note that these six 1st-level spells are typically chosen from the extensive wizard spell list, giving you the flexibility to customize your character's magical focus from the very beginning. As you advance in levels, you will gain the ability to learn more cantrips and add more spells, including higher-level spells, to your spellbook.
