How Do Wizards Learn Scrolls?
Direct Answer
Wizards learn spells from scrolls by either copying a spell from a spell scroll into their spellbook or by acquiring a spellbook that already contains the desired spell.
Two Ways to Learn Spells from Scrolls
• Copying a Spell from a Spell Scroll: When a wizard copies a spell from a spell scroll into their spellbook, they must succeed on an Intelligence (Arcana) check with a DC equal to 10 + the spell’s level. If the check succeeds, the spell is successfully copied. Whether the check succeeds or fails, the spell scroll is destroyed.
• Acquiring a Spellbook: A wizard can also learn a spell by acquiring a spellbook that already contains the desired spell. This can be done by purchasing the spellbook from a merchant, stealing it from another wizard, or finding it in a dungeon or ruin.
What Spells Can Wizards Learn from Scrolls?
- Wizard Spells: Only spells on the Wizard list can be learned from scrolls. This means that wizards can learn spells from scrolls that are exclusive to the Wizard class, such as the spells listed in the Player’s Handbook.
- Non-Wizard Spells: Wizards cannot learn spells from scrolls that are not on the Wizard list. This includes spells from other spell lists, such as cleric spells or druid spells.
Can Wizards Learn Cantrips from Scrolls?
- Typically Not Allowed: A wizard can only copy a cantrip from a scroll into their spellbook if the DM allows it. Typically, this is not allowed because a wizard can only "know" so many cantrips.
- Rewriting the Spell: If a wizard does want to learn a cantrip from a scroll, they must rewrite it in their own notation first. This means that the wizard must take the time to decipher the notation used by the original spellcaster and then rewrite it in their own handwriting.
Can Wizards Prepare Spells from Another Spellbook?
- Deciphering the Notation: As a wizard, you’ve studied enough that you can understand someone else’s notation, but you can’t translate and prepare it at the same time. You need to rewrite it in your own notation first.
- Rewriting the Spell: When rewriting a spell, the wizard must take the time to decipher the notation used by the original spellcaster and then rewrite it in their own handwriting. This can be a time-consuming process, but it allows the wizard to make the spell their own and customize it to their specific needs.
Can Spell Scrolls be Reused?
- No: Once used, a consumable item loses its magic. The ink vanishes, but the paper stays. This means that a wizard cannot reuse a spell scroll, even if they failed to copy the spell successfully.
Table: How Wizards Learn Spells from Scrolls
| Method | Intelligence (Arcana) Check | Spellbook Copy | Scroll Destruction |
|---|---|---|---|
| Copying a Spell from a Spell Scroll | DC equal to 10 + the spell’s level | Successful copy | Yes |
| Acquiring a Spellbook | N/A | Copying the spell into their own spellbook | No |
Conclusion
Learning spells from scrolls is a key part of being a wizard. By copying spells from scrolls or acquiring spellbooks, wizards can add new spells to their repertoire and expand their magical abilities. Whether you’re copying a spell from a scroll or acquiring a spellbook, it’s important to understand the rules and processes involved to ensure that your magic is effective and reliable.