Dungeons & Dragons: A Deep Dive into Spell Preparation in 5e
Magic and spellcasters are quintessential to Dungeons & Dragons. Nine of the thirteen playable classes inherently cast spells, while the remaining four can access spellcasting through subclasses. However, spellcasting isn't uniform; some learn spells gradually, others prepare a daily selection. This guide clarifies spell preparation in D&D 5e, updated with the 2024 Player's Handbook.
Understanding Spell Preparation
Spell preparation involves selecting spells from your class's spell list for daily use. This grants access to any spell on your list, unlike classes limited to a fixed number of learned spells. While you can cast any prepared spell, you still need available spell slots. This daily selection allows adaptation to various scenarios.
Classes That Prepare Spells Daily
Not all spellcasting classes prepare spells daily. The following table details those that do, and their preparation limits:
Class | Preparation Time | Number of Spells |
---|---|---|
Cleric | After a long rest | Any |
Druid | After a long rest | Any |
Paladin | After a long rest | One |
Ranger | After a long rest | One |
Wizard | After a long rest | Any (from spellbook) |
Wizards differ; they prepare spells from their spellbooks, not their class list.
Bards, Sorcerers, and Warlocks: A Different Approach
Bards, sorcerers, and warlocks don't prepare spells daily. Their spell selection changes upon leveling up.
Class | Preparation Time | Number of Spells |
---|---|---|
Bard | Upon leveling up | One |
Sorcerer | Upon leveling up | One |
Warlock | Upon leveling up | One |
This offers less daily flexibility, but allows for spell swaps with each level gain.
Number of Spells Preparable (2024 PHB)
The number of spells preparable depends on your character's level (as detailed in the 2024 Player's Handbook). The example below shows a druid's preparation capacity:
Level | Cantrips | Prepared Spells | Spell Slots |
---|---|---|---|
1 | 2 | 4 | One First Level |
2 | 2 | 5 | Three First Level |
3 | 2 | 6 | Four First Level, Two Second Level |
4 | 3 | 7 | Four First Level, Three Second Level |
5 | 3 | 9 | Four First Level, Three Second Level, Two Third Level |
Consult the 2024 Player's Handbook for class-specific details.
Number of Spells Preparable (2014 PHB)
The 2014 Player's Handbook uses a different calculation: spellcasting ability modifier character level (sometimes rounded down). One minute of meditation per spell level is required for each new spell prepared.
Class | Number of Spells Prepared |
---|---|
Cleric | Wisdom modifier cleric level |
Druid | Wisdom modifier druid level |
Paladin | Charisma modifier half paladin level (rounded down) |
Wizard | Intelligence modifier wizard level |
Rangers in the 2014 PHB have a fixed list of known spells, not prepared spells. Other spellcasting classes (including subclasses) have a set number of known spells, which change with level. Refer to each class description for specifics.
Spell Slots and Prepared Spells
You're not restricted to preparing a specific number of spells at each level. A level 5 druid, for example, could prepare all first-level spells, or any combination of first, second, and third-level spells. However, be mindful of your available spell slots.
Casting Unprepared Spells: Exceptions
While spell preparation is standard, exceptions exist:
Exception | Details |
---|---|
Always-Prepared Spells | Certain class features make some spells always prepared. |
Cantrips | Always prepared, don't require slots or preparation. |
Special Abilities | Some abilities allow at-will spellcasting. |
Magic Items | Magic items can cast spells without preparation or slots. |
Consult your DM or the item/ability description for clarification.
The above is the detailed content of Dungeons & Dragons: Preparing Spells, Explained. For more information, please follow other related articles on the PHP Chinese website!

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