Proficiency
Beginner
Character
Also known as: proficiency bonus, trained
Definition
A bonus added to rolls for skills, tools, weapons, or saves your character is trained in. In 5e, proficiency bonus scales with level from +2 to +6.
How it works in different systems
D&D 5e: Proficiency bonus +2 to +6 based on level. Added to skills, attacks, saves you're trained in.
Pathfinder 2e: Four levels: Untrained, Trained, Expert, Master, Legendary. Each adds more.
Call of Cthulhu 7e: No proficiency - your skill percentage IS your training level.
Vampire V5: Skills rated 0-5. Having dots IS your proficiency.
Example
“You're proficient in Stealth and your bonus is +3 (level 5). With DEX +4, your total Stealth is +7.”
Common Mistakes
- Adding proficiency to damage (you don't)
- Stacking proficiency from multiple sources (you can't - but expertise doubles it)
- Forgetting which saves you're proficient in