DEX (Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition)
Definition
Dexterity is the most load-bearing ability on a 5e character sheet. It adds to your armor class in light armor or none, it is your initiative roll, it powers ranged and finesse weapon attacks, and it governs three skills: Acrobatics, Sleight of Hand, and Stealth. Almost no build regrets a positive Dexterity modifier. It is also the best saving throw to be good at. Dexterity saves are the ones that appear on area damage effects, where success typically halves the damage rather than only avoiding a condition. A character with a high Dexterity is quietly taking less damage in fights where they are never targeted directly.
How it works
Tips
Frequently asked questions
Why is Dexterity called the best ability in 5e?
It is the only score that feeds armor class, initiative, attack rolls, three skills, and the most common damaging saving throw. No other ability touches that many parts of a turn, so even non-Dexterity builds usually keep it at 12 or higher.
Does Dexterity help my armor class in heavy armor?
No. Heavy armor sets AC from the armor alone. Light armor adds your full modifier and medium armor adds up to +2, so match your armor choice to your score rather than paying for both.
Do finesse weapons have to use Dexterity?
No, you choose. A finesse weapon lets you use Strength or Dexterity for its attack and damage rolls, and you use the same score for both. Most characters pick whichever modifier is higher and never revisit it.