Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition class
Bard
Bard is a class in Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition: Versatile performers who weave magic through music and words.
Last reviewed
Key facts
- Hit Die
- d8
- Primary Ability
- CHA
- Saving Throws
- DEX, CHA
Overview
Bards are masters of song, speech, and the magic they contain. They are versatile spellcasters who use their artistic talents to inspire allies, manipulate minds, and tap into the magic woven through creation. A bard's magic comes from the heart and soul, channeled through performance. Bard characters are jacks-of-all-trades, capable in combat, social encounters, and exploration. With full spellcasting and the most skill proficiencies of any class, they fill gaps in any party. The College of Lore subclass (SRD) doubles down on knowledge and versatility, gaining Additional Magical Secrets and Cutting Words.
How it works
Hit Die: d8 Primary Ability: Charisma Saving Throws: Dexterity, Charisma Spellcasting: Full caster using Charisma. Learns spells (not prepared). Up to 9th level slots. Bardic Inspiration: Bonus action to give an ally a die (d6, scaling up) to add to an ability check, attack roll, or saving throw within 10 minutes. Jack of All Trades: Add half proficiency bonus to any ability check you're not already proficient in. College of Lore (SRD): Cutting Words (reaction to subtract from enemy rolls), 3 extra skill proficiencies, Additional Magical Secrets (learn 2 spells from any class at level 6).
Tips and playstyle
Character Concepts: Traveling minstrel, court diplomat, war drummer, storyteller, con artist, lorekeeper, street performer. Playstyle: Bards are the ultimate support class. Use Bardic Inspiration to boost allies, control the battlefield with spells, and handle social encounters with expertise. College of Lore lets you steal spells from other classes. Synergies: Expertise in Persuasion or Deception makes you the party face. Healing Word is an efficient bonus action heal. Counterspell (via Magical Secrets) is incredibly strong on a Bard thanks to Jack of All Trades applying to the check.
Frequently asked questions
How does Bardic Inspiration work?
As a bonus action, give one creature within 60 feet a Bardic Inspiration die. Within 10 minutes, they can roll it and add it to one ability check, attack roll, or saving throw. Uses equal to your CHA modifier per long rest (short rest at level 5+).
What is Magical Secrets?
At level 10 (and 6 for Lore), you can learn spells from any class's spell list. This is incredibly powerful and lets you grab spells like Counterspell, Find Greater Steed, or Aura of Vitality.