What are the rules for casting cantrips?
The rules for casting cantrips are straightforward: a cantrip is a spell that can be cast at will, without using a spell slot and without being prepared in advance, with its spell level being 0, and it can be cast an unlimited number of times per day. The key to understanding cantrip rules lies in recognizing that cantrips are spells that are mastered to the point where they can be performed without depleting any spell slots, making them highly versatile and useful in various situations.
Understanding Cantrips
Definition and Usage
Cantrips are the simplest form of magic in D&D, often representing minor tricks or utilities that magic users have mastered. This mastery allows them to cast cantrips at will, without the need for spell slots or prior preparation, making them an integral part of a spellcaster’s arsenal.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can you cast 2 cantrips in one turn? Yes, you can cast two cantrips in one turn, as the only restriction is related to casting a bonus action spell, after which the only other spell you can cast in the same turn is a cantrip with a casting time of one action.
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How do you cast a cantrip? You must use a bonus action on your turn to cast the spell, provided that you haven’t already taken a bonus action this turn, although there are specific rules about combining cantrips with other spells.
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Can you cast 2 cantrips as a bonus action? Yes, the rule for casting any spell with a bonus action says that the only other spells you may cast that turn are cantrips with an action, allowing for flexibility in spell choice.
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How many cantrips can you cast per day? As a Sorcerer, you know 5 cantrips and can cast each of those 5 as many times as you want per day, with the option to learn additional cantrips through certain class feats.
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Can you cast cantrips infinitely? Yes, cantrips can be cast an unlimited number of times per day, as they do not require spell slots and are not limited by any preparation requirements.
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Can cantrips be cast at any time? Cantrips can be cast at will, without using a spell slot and without being prepared in advance, making them available at any time during the game.
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Can I cast a cantrip and then a bonus action spell? If you cast any spell as a bonus action, the only spells that can be cast with your action during the same turn are cantrips with a casting time of one action.
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What are bonus action cantrips? Bonus action spells are beneficial because they let spellcasters cast two spells in one round, with cantrips being a key part of this strategy due to their versatility.
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Can you action surge and cast 2 cantrips? No, if you cast any spell (leveled or cantrip) as a bonus action, any other spell you cast on this same turn has to be a cantrip, limiting the use of action surge for casting multiple cantrips.
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How often can a cantrip be cast? Any character can cast any cantrips they know at will and an unlimited number of times, unless the feature that lets them cast it specifically says otherwise, providing a high degree of flexibility.
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Can I cast a cantrip while concentrating? Yes, you can cast cantrips while concentrating on a spell, as you only break concentration if you cast another spell that requires concentration.
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How long do cantrips last? The duration of cantrips varies, with most being instantaneous, but some lasting one round, one minute, ten minutes, or one hour, with Encode Thoughts being a notable exception lasting 8 hours.
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Can you cast 2 cantrips with 2 actions? Yes, you can cast as many cantrips as you have actions for, allowing for the casting of multiple cantrips in a single turn.
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Can cantrips be switched? No, there is no way to change cantrips in all classes under standard D&D5 rules, though certain variant rules may offer this option.
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Do cantrips automatically hit? Many cantrips do not automatically hit, as some require a saving throw instead of an attack roll, and not all cantrips are attacks, making their effectiveness dependent on the specific cantrip and the situation.