Problem → workflow → tool
Character creation checklist in Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition
Follow a step-by-step flow so you don’t miss key choices during creation. Use the links below to apply the workflow in Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition and keep it consistent across sessions.
Workflow (do this first)
- Write the concept in one sentence before opening the sheet.
- Follow the system’s creation order, distribution rules and caps matter.
- Reserve any final-pass / freebie / bonus points for the gaps the concept needs.
- Sanity-check derived stats (HP, Willpower, Sanity, Stamina) before session 1.
D&D 5e resolves rolls with a d20: roll 1d20, add your ability modifier and proficiency bonus if it applies, and meet or beat a Difficulty Class (or the target's Armor Class for attacks). Advantage and disadvantage have you roll two d20s and keep the better or worse.
Key facts
- 12 classes: Barbarian, Bard, Cleric, Druid, Fighter, Monk, Paladin, Ranger, Rogue, Sorcerer, Warlock, Wizard
- 9 races (SRD): Human, Elf, Dwarf, Halfling, Dragonborn, Gnome, Half-Elf, Half-Orc, Tiefling
- 6 ability scores: Strength, Dexterity, Constitution, Intelligence, Wisdom, Charisma
- d20 system: Roll d20 + modifier vs. Difficulty Class (DC) or Armor Class (AC)
- Proficiency bonus: Scales from +2 to +6 across levels 1-20
- Advantage/disadvantage: Roll 2d20 and take higher or lower instead of flat modifiers
Common mistakes
- Mistake: Starting with optimized stats and reverse-engineering a concept. Fix: Concept first, math second, produces a character you actually want to play.
- Mistake: Skipping the final-pass step. Fix: Final pass closes the gap between mechanics and concept, half a character without it.
Context (system overview)
Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition is the world's most popular tabletop roleplaying game, where players create heroic adventurers and explore fantastical worlds filled with magic, monsters, and mystery. Using a d20-based system, players roll a twenty-sided die plus modifiers to determine the outcome of attacks, skill checks, and saving throws.