How Many Cantrips Can a Level 1 Bard Have?

A level 1 Bard in Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition (5e) knows two cantrips of their choice from the bard spell list. This is a fundamental aspect of the bard class and provides the foundation for their magical abilities right from the start. Unlike spells which are limited by spell slots, cantrips can be cast at will, meaning a level 1 Bard can use these two cantrips as often as they like without having to worry about running out of magical energy.

The Bard’s Magic: Cantrips vs. Spells

It’s crucial to understand the difference between cantrips and spells for any spellcasting class. Cantrips are simple, repeatable magical effects that are learned through practice and imbued within the caster. Spells, on the other hand, are more powerful and versatile but are limited by spell slots, which are refreshed after a long rest.

Cantrips: Unlimited Magical Potency

The key characteristic of cantrips, and why they are so valuable, is that they are unlimited. A Bard can cast their two chosen cantrips repeatedly throughout a day, making them a dependable source of magical power. This is particularly important for a 1st-level character who has limited spell slots for their more potent spells.

Choosing Your Cantrips Wisely

While you only get two cantrips at level 1, selecting them with care can significantly impact your effectiveness. Here’s a breakdown of what to consider:

• Versatility: Consider taking cantrips that offer different kinds of effects to make your Bard more well-rounded. For example, choosing one that provides a direct effect like damage and another that provides utility is often a good choice.
• Combat vs. Utility: Some cantrips are primarily designed for combat, while others are more useful outside of battle. Bards often perform the role of support, so consider how your cantrips can support your allies or solve non-combat challenges.
• Bardic Flavor: Bards are known for their charisma and their performance, so choosing cantrips that are flavorful and expressive will help emphasize your character’s identity.
• Future Considerations: Consider how your cantrips will scale at higher levels. Although they won’t grow in power like a spell, the increased consistency of cantrips will continue to serve you well.

Example Cantrip Choices for Level 1 Bards

Many guides and players suggest that Vicious Mockery is a near-mandatory choice for a level 1 Bard, because it’s the only direct-damage cantrip available in the Player’s Handbook. It deals psychic damage and inflicts disadvantage on the next attack roll, which is extremely useful in combat. The second choice is a bit more flexible but many often recommend Prestidigitation for its versatile utility as it allows the creation of small, minor magical effects.

Other cantrip choices a Bard might consider include:

• Light: To illuminate dark spaces
• Mage Hand: For manipulating small objects from afar
• Mending: For repairing broken items.
• Minor Illusion: To create small visual or auditory illusions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are 15 frequently asked questions about Bard cantrips to clarify some of the nuances of this core class feature.

1. Do Bards gain more cantrips at higher levels?

Yes, Bards learn additional cantrips as they level up. The number of cantrips they know is listed in the Cantrips Known column of the Bard class table. You start with two at level 1 and learn more at higher levels.

2. Can a Bard change their cantrips later on?

No, there is no general way for a Bard to change their cantrips. Once a cantrip has been chosen, it is permanently part of the Bard’s repertoire. This rule is consistent across all classes in 5e. Be sure of your selections!

3. Do cantrips count against the number of spells a Bard knows?

No, cantrips are separate from the spells a Bard knows. The number of spells a Bard can cast is found in the spells known column of their class table, and cantrips do not count towards that. They are distinct and cast differently.

4. What is the best cantrip for a Bard?

The “best” cantrip is subjective and varies based on playstyle, but Vicious Mockery and Prestidigitation are widely considered excellent choices. Vicious Mockery deals damage and imposes disadvantage, while Prestidigitation provides incredible utility for problem-solving and performance.

5. Can Bards learn cantrips from other class spell lists?

Generally, Bards can only choose cantrips from the bard spell list. However, some subclasses or feats can allow you to learn spells from other lists, which might also include cantrips. Magical Secrets is one such feature that allows learning of spells from different classes.

6. Are cantrips considered spells?

Yes, cantrips are a type of spell. They follow the same rules for casting spells, except that they do not require a spell slot, and they can be cast at will.

7. Can a Bard use cantrips while wearing armor?

Yes, Bards can use cantrips while wearing the armor they are proficient in. Bards are typically only proficient in light armor, unless a subclass grants access to medium armor.

8. Do cantrips require verbal, somatic or material components?

Yes, cantrips usually require verbal and somatic components, just like other spells. Some spells may also require material components, but these are usually consumed on casting. Some spells do not have components but these are rare.

9. Do cantrips scale in damage?

Yes, cantrip damage scales. Generally speaking, they scale based on your character level rather than your class level, increasing in damage at levels 5, 11, and 17. This is very similar to how other spellcasting classes see cantrip damage increase at the same intervals.

10. Can I use a cantrip to break invisibility?

Casting a cantrip does break invisibility, as it is considered the same as casting any other spell. Any action that includes attacking or casting a spell will break invisibility.

11. What happens if I cast a cantrip in an antimagic field?

Inside an antimagic field, any magical effect, including cantrips, is suppressed. Your cantrip will have no effect within the field.

12. Can a Bard use a cantrip while raging?

No, a Bard cannot cast cantrips while raging. Raging explicitly prevents the use of spells, and this includes cantrips as well.

13. Are there any magic items that enhance cantrips?

Yes, magic items exist that can enhance cantrips. These items often provide benefits like additional damage or range, or sometimes different effects. They’re usually rare and require some searching in the game.

14. How do cantrips interact with concentration?

Cantrips do not require concentration. Since they are at-will spells, you can cast them without the need to concentrate like other spells. This allows you to maintain concentration on other spells while casting cantrips freely.

15. Can I use multiple cantrips in the same turn?

No, you cannot use multiple cantrips in the same turn, unless you have some specific feature or ability that allows you to do so. Usually, you can only cast one spell or cantrip per turn. Using your bonus action to cast a cantrip would be another action that can be done in the same turn.

Conclusion

A level 1 Bard starts with a magical arsenal of two powerful cantrips that can be used at will. Choosing these cantrips wisely is essential for a well-rounded and effective character. Understanding the differences between cantrips and spells and knowing how your cantrips interact with the game’s rules will help you maximize your Bard’s potential. Remember, while spells may be your Bard’s biggest strength, cantrips provide a reliable base of magic that you will continue to use throughout your adventures.