[RPG] How to calculate spell ability and spell save dc?

dnd-5espells

So I read this:

Spell save DC = 8 + your proficiency bonus + your Intelligence modifier
Spell attack modifier = your proficiency bonus + your Intelligence modifier

Now, in this case is 8 just a base number or is that supposed to be the intelligence score? I am mainly confused because if it is the score and that is for a wizard that it very low. I'm trying to determine the numbers I would then require to place for spellcasting ability, spell save dc and spell attack bonus.

Best Answer

It's just the base number, not your intelligence score or any other stat. Note that the proficiency bonus is 2 at first level, so it adds up to 10 + modifier at first level, 11 + modifier at fifth level, 12 + modifier at ninth level and so on.