I've recently started playing D&D with some friends, and the one thing on the character sheet that bothers me is the defense section.
In the defenses section, it has both the sections 10 + 1/2 Lvl and Ability Modifier parts.
I would assume that you would take 10 + 1/2 Lvl + Ability Modifier as your bonus, where your ability modifier isn't also raised by half level, because you're already adding it to the ten. Simply speaking, if I had a level two Paladin with 16 strength, my fortitude would be: 10 + 1 + 3 = 14 (neglecting other bonuses) and not 10 + 1 + (3 + 1) = 15 (again, neglecting other bonuses) because my ability modifier is also being raised by 1/2 level. Is this correct?
If not, then I would feel exceedingly stupid for being smacked around unnecessarily by monsters 😛
(Also, if someone could clarify on whether AC is armor + ability score only when you're wearing light armor or not, that would be great. Thanks!)
Best Answer
Your logic is correct!
Yes in 4E for your defenses you add 10+relevant ability modifier+ 1/2 your level rounded down + any relevant class bonuses.
You only add half your level once. Oh and welcome to the site!
And yes your AC is armor + ability modifier only when you wear light to no armor.