Rules reference
Character creation in Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition
Creation steps and common decision points. 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.
Key points
Use this as a checklist, then build your character in RPG Stack.
Copyable 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
Creation order (from system.json)
- Choose a Race
- Choose a Class
- Determine Ability Scores (Standard Array, Point Buy, or 4d6 drop lowest)
- Describe Your Character (name, alignment, background, personality)
- Calculate Derived Stats (HP, AC, initiative, proficiency bonus)
- Choose Equipment and Spells (if applicable)
- Choose Proficiencies and Languages
Examples
Example: Concept first
Start with a simple concept (role + vibe), then choose attributes/skills that support it. You can fill details later.
Example: One signature move
Make sure your sheet supports a signature action you want to do often (investigate, intimidate, hack, heal, etc.).
Common mistakes (smallest fix)
- Mistake: Skipping concept and getting lost in options. Fix: Pick a role, pick 2 strengths, pick 1 weakness, then fill details.
- Mistake: Not aligning your sheet with the campaign. Fix: Ask what kind of scenes you’ll play (combat, investigation, politics) and build for that.
Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition FAQ
How does the d20 system work in D&D 5e?
What are the ability scores in D&D 5e?
How does advantage and disadvantage work?
What class should I play as a beginner?
How does spellcasting work in D&D 5e?