I've just started Playing D&D and the DM has given me inaccurate information so I need some clarification. My character is a Cleric with Wisdom 19 and follows the Trickster domain. My spellcasting modifier I think is calculated by using my proficiency bonus plus my Wisdom modifier plus the spell level. Which I think means, when casting a level 1 spell, I add +4 to it.
I'm trying to help my friend and he's playing as a wizard. Assuming what is above is accurate, does he just swaps out wisdom for intelligence, and that's how he determines his spellcasting modifier?
Best Answer
In 5th edition D&D, all calculations are basically the same for similar purposes.
Spell casters always use the same calculation with their "spellcasting modifier" being based on the specific attribute that their spells are based on. This is Intelligence for Wizards and Wisdom for Clerics.
The proficiency modifier will start at a +2. Many, if not most, characters will start with a +3 in their spellcasting attribute, though some builds will have a +2.
That said, spell level is not used in these checks (For Clerics, you can look at page 22 of the Basic Rules).
The two relevant calculations are as follows:
Spell save DC = 8 + your proficiency bonus + your Wisdom modifier
Spell attack modifier = your proficiency bonus + your Wisdom modifier
The spell save is the difficulty for others to resist your spells. The spell attack is for rolls to hit the opponent's armor class with your spells.
Wizards are listed on page 30 of the basic rules and state:
As you can see, they are identical, save your spellcasting ability for the class being different.