Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition Ability Scores
Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition has 6 ability scores: Strength (STR), Dexterity (DEX), Constitution (CON), Intelligence (INT), Wisdom (WIS), Charisma (CHA). The table below compares abbreviation & derived stats for each ability score. Open any ability score for full rules, then build your character.
Ability Scores at a glance
| Ability Score | Abbreviation | Derived Stats | Summary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Strength (STR) Measures natural athleticism, bodily power, and physical force. | STR | Melee attack rolls, Damage (melee), Athletics, STR saves | Measures natural athleticism, bodily power, and physical force. |
| Dexterity (DEX) Measures agility, reflexes, and balance. | DEX | AC, Initiative, Ranged attacks, DEX saves, Acrobatics, Stealth, Sleight of Hand | Measures agility, reflexes, and balance. |
| Constitution (CON) Measures health, stamina, and vital force. | CON | Hit Points, CON saves, Concentration checks | Measures health, stamina, and vital force. |
| Intelligence (INT) Measures mental acuity, accuracy of recall, and the ability to reason. | INT | Wizard spellcasting, INT saves, Arcana, History, Investigation, Nature, Religion | Measures mental acuity, accuracy of recall, and the ability to reason. |
| Wisdom (WIS) Measures awareness, intuition, and insight. | WIS | Cleric/Druid/Ranger spellcasting, WIS saves, Perception, Insight, Medicine, Survival, Animal Handling | Measures awareness, intuition, and insight. |
| Charisma (CHA) Measures force of personality, persuasiveness, and leadership. | CHA | Bard/Paladin/Sorcerer/Warlock spellcasting, CHA saves, Persuasion, Deception, Intimidation, Performance | Measures force of personality, persuasiveness, and leadership. |
Strength (STR)
Measures natural athleticism, bodily power, and physical force.
Dexterity (DEX)
Measures agility, reflexes, and balance.
Constitution (CON)
Measures health, stamina, and vital force.
Intelligence (INT)
Measures mental acuity, accuracy of recall, and the ability to reason.
Wisdom (WIS)
Measures awareness, intuition, and insight.
Charisma (CHA)
Measures force of personality, persuasiveness, and leadership.
Overview
All 6 ability scores in Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition, with what each one gives your character. Open any ability score for its full rules, tips, and FAQ.
All ability scores
Strength (STR) - Measures natural athleticism, bodily power, and physical force. Used for melee attacks, Athletics checks, and carrying capacity.
Dexterity (DEX) - Measures agility, reflexes, and balance. Used for ranged attacks, AC, initiative, and finesse weapons.
Constitution (CON) - Measures health, stamina, and vital force. Determines hit points and resistance to effects like poison.
Intelligence (INT) - Measures mental acuity, accuracy of recall, and the ability to reason. The spellcasting ability for Wizards.
Wisdom (WIS) - Measures awareness, intuition, and insight. The spellcasting ability for Clerics, Druids, and Rangers.
Charisma (CHA) - Measures force of personality, persuasiveness, and leadership. The spellcasting ability for Bards, Paladins, Sorcerers, and Warlocks.
Frequently asked questions
How many ability scores does Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition have?
Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition has 6 ability scores in this reference, including Strength (STR), Dexterity (DEX) and Constitution (CON). Open any ability score on this page for its full rules and traits.
How do I choose an ability score?
Start with the character you want to play, then read how each ability score changes your options. The table above compares abbreviation & derived stats for every ability score, which is the quickest way to narrow the list. Your choice is easiest to judge once you have seen the full ability score page.