In D&D 5e, calculate a spell attack bonus by adding the spellcasting ability modifier to the character’s proficiency bonus. Add that total to the d20 roll when a spell calls for an attack roll.
How to calculate a spell attack bonus
- Identify the spellcasting ability tied to the feature that lets you cast the spell.
- Use that ability’s modifier from your character sheet—not the ability score itself.
- Find your current proficiency bonus.
- Add the ability modifier and proficiency bonus once. The result is your spell attack bonus.
For example, a +3 spellcasting ability modifier and a +2 proficiency bonus make a +5 spell attack bonus. Roll a d20 and add 5 when making a spell attack, plus any applicable situational modifiers.
Which spellcasting ability should you use?
Use the ability named by the feature that grants the spell. For ordinary class spellcasting, that is the ability specified in the class’s spellcasting feature. If you have more than one spellcasting class, use the ability associated with the class that supplied the spell you are casting; do not assume all your spells use the same ability.
When to add the bonus—and when not to
Add the spell attack bonus when a spell instructs you to make an attack roll. The bonus applies to that roll, not automatically to the spell’s damage; follow the spell’s damage instructions to determine what, if anything, you add to damage.
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Proficiency is part of the formula, but add it only once to a roll, even if more than one feature seems relevant. Advantage, disadvantage, or other applicable effects can change the attack roll’s circumstances without changing the base spell attack bonus.
Spell attack bonus vs. spell save DC
These values serve different purposes. Use a spell attack bonus when you roll to hit; use a spell save DC when the target makes a saving throw against your spell.
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| Value | Calculation | Used when |
|---|---|---|
| Spell attack bonus | Spellcasting ability modifier + proficiency bonus | You make a spell attack roll |
| Spell save DC | 8 + spellcasting ability modifier + proficiency bonus | A target makes a saving throw against your spell |
2014 and 2024 rules terminology
The 2014 Basic Rules call this value the “attack bonus with a spell attack.” The 2024 Basic Rules call it the “spell attack modifier.” The terminology differs, but both versions use the same ability-modifier-plus-proficiency calculation.
For the rules text, see the 2014 Basic Rules: Spellcasting and the 2024 Basic Rules: Making an Attack.
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