What are the Numbers for D&D Stats?

In Dungeons & Dragons (D&D), your character’s abilities are represented by six core statistics, often referred to as stats or ability scores: Strength, Dexterity, Constitution, Intelligence, Wisdom, and Charisma. Each stat has a numerical value that determines how proficient your character is in tasks related to that ability. These numbers typically range from 3 to 20, although magic items and certain character features can temporarily or permanently raise them higher.

The stat numbers themselves aren’t used directly in most rolls. Instead, they determine an ability modifier, a bonus or penalty applied to skill checks, saving throws, and other relevant dice rolls. The higher the stat number, the better the modifier. Understanding these numbers and their associated modifiers is crucial for playing D&D effectively.

Understanding the Ability Score Scale

The ability score scale in D&D is designed to represent the wide range of capabilities a character can possess. A score of 10 or 11 is considered average for a commoner. Scores below 10 represent below-average abilities, while scores above 11 indicate above-average abilities.

Here’s a general breakdown of what different stat ranges might represent:

• 3-5: Extremely low. The character is severely impaired in this ability.
• 6-8: Below average. The character struggles with tasks related to this ability.
• 9-11: Average. The character is competent but not particularly skilled.
• 12-14: Above average. The character is noticeably good at tasks related to this ability.
• 15-17: Very good. The character is highly skilled and capable.
• 18-20: Exceptional. The character is among the best in the world in this ability.
• 21-30: Beyond normal limits; typically only achievable through magic or exceptional circumstances.

It’s important to remember that these are just guidelines. A character with a Strength of 14 might still struggle to lift an extremely heavy object if the Dungeon Master (DM) deems it appropriate. The DM always has the final say.

Ability Modifiers: The Real Game Changers

While your ability score reflects your raw potential, the ability modifier is what you actually add to your dice rolls. The modifier is derived directly from the ability score using a simple formula:

(Ability Score – 10) / 2, rounded down.

This means:

• Scores of 10 and 11 have a modifier of +0.
• Scores of 12 and 13 have a modifier of +1.
• Scores of 14 and 15 have a modifier of +2.
• Scores of 16 and 17 have a modifier of +3.
• Scores of 18 and 19 have a modifier of +4.
• A score of 20 has a modifier of +5.

Conversely:

• Scores of 8 and 9 have a modifier of -1.
• Scores of 6 and 7 have a modifier of -2.
• Scores of 4 and 5 have a modifier of -3.
• Scores of 2 and 3 have a modifier of -4.

These modifiers are added to almost every relevant dice roll, making them incredibly important. A seemingly small +1 or -1 can significantly impact your chances of success or failure.

Why These Numbers Matter

Understanding ability scores and modifiers is essential for several reasons:

• Character Creation: When creating a character, you’ll need to determine your ability scores, either through rolling dice, using point buy, or using a standard array. These scores will define your character’s strengths and weaknesses.
• Skill Checks: Many skills are tied to specific ability scores. For example, Athletics is based on Strength, Stealth on Dexterity, and Persuasion on Charisma. When making a skill check, you’ll add your ability modifier to the d20 roll.
• Saving Throws: Saving throws are used to resist harmful effects. Each ability score has a corresponding saving throw. When making a saving throw, you’ll add your ability modifier to the d20 roll.
• Combat: Ability scores influence combat in various ways. Strength affects melee attack rolls and damage, Dexterity affects armor class and initiative, and Constitution affects hit points.
• Roleplaying: Ability scores can also inform your character’s personality and behavior. A character with low Intelligence might be easily fooled, while a character with high Charisma might be a natural leader.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions about ability scores in D&D:

1. What is the best way to determine ability scores when creating a character?

There are several methods: rolling dice, using the standard array, and using point buy. Rolling dice is the most random, while the standard array and point buy offer more control. Each method has its pros and cons, so choose the one that best suits your playstyle and the campaign’s expectations.

2. Can ability scores go above 20 without magic?

Generally, no. The natural maximum for an ability score is 20. However, certain class features or feats might allow temporary increases above 20. Magic items, such as the Belt of Giant Strength, can also raise ability scores above 20.

3. How do racial bonuses affect ability scores?

Most races provide bonuses to specific ability scores. These bonuses are added to the base score you generate during character creation, effectively making your character better at certain things. For example, a dwarf might get a +2 to Constitution.

4. What happens if my ability score reaches 0?

If any of your ability scores reach 0, you are typically incapacitated. The specific consequences depend on which stat reaches 0, and the circumstances of how it reached 0. For instance, reaching 0 hit points due to Constitution would likely result in death, whereas 0 in Intelligence might result in a coma.

5. How often can I increase my ability scores?

You can typically increase your ability scores by taking an Ability Score Improvement feat when you reach certain levels (usually 4th, 8th, 12th, 16th, and 19th). You can either increase one ability score by 2, or two ability scores by 1. Alternatively, you can choose a feat instead.

6. What is the difference between an ability score and a skill?

An ability score represents your raw potential, while a skill is a specific area of expertise that relies on that ability. For example, Strength is an ability score, while Athletics is a skill based on Strength. Your proficiency bonus is added to skills you are proficient in.

7. How does proficiency affect ability checks?

Proficiency doesn’t directly affect ability scores themselves, but it is added to skill checks if you’re proficient in that skill. A character with proficiency in Persuasion will add their proficiency bonus to Charisma (Persuasion) checks.

8. Are there any spells that affect ability scores?

Yes, several spells can temporarily or permanently affect ability scores. Enhance Ability provides temporary advantages on ability checks, while Wish can be used to permanently increase an ability score.

9. How does exhaustion affect ability scores?

Exhaustion imposes disadvantage on ability checks if the level of exhaustion is high enough. It does not directly lower the ability score number. Exhaustion levels are cumulative, and higher levels have more severe consequences.

10. Can I change my ability scores after character creation?

Generally, no. Once your ability scores are set, they are difficult to change permanently without magic or specific character features. Temporary buffs and debuffs are more common.

11. What is the “standard array” for ability scores?

The standard array is a set of pre-determined ability scores: 15, 14, 13, 12, 10, and 8. It provides a balanced and consistent starting point for character creation.

12. How does multiclassing affect ability scores?

Some multiclassing options require a minimum ability score in your current class and the class you’re multiclassing into. This prevents characters from becoming overly specialized and ensures they have a baseline level of competence in both classes.

13. Do monsters have ability scores?

Yes, monsters have ability scores just like player characters. These scores determine their strengths and weaknesses, and are used for making attacks, saving throws, and ability checks.

14. What happens if I have disadvantage on an ability check?

When you have disadvantage, you roll the d20 twice and take the lower result. This significantly reduces your chances of success.

15. How do I calculate my saving throw bonus?

Your saving throw bonus is calculated by adding your ability modifier to your proficiency bonus (if you’re proficient in that saving throw). For example, if you have a Wisdom score of 14 (+2 modifier) and proficiency in Wisdom saving throws (+3 proficiency bonus), your Wisdom saving throw bonus is +5.