TL DR: Abilities define your character at a fundamental level.įigure 2. For instance, if you’re strong and have a +4 to strength, you’ll be more likely to succeed at a strength-based action whereas if you have a -1 intelligence, you might want to avoid challenging that clever wizard at a game of fantasy chess. Based on what you’re good or bad at, these numbers vary and determine how you perform at an action based on that ability. You’ll also notice a second smaller number like -1, 0, +1, etc. Are they strong, aware, or intelligent? Are they agile, resilient, or charismatic? Your scores determine those answers. If you’re character is on D&D Beyond, please refer to this guide instead.Ībilities describe your character at a fundamental level. Here’s what you need to know about 5th edition character sheets for D&D Newbie Sessions. This page covers the standard 5e character sheet.
