How do you use divine smite?

How Do You Use Divine Smite?

Divine Smite is a powerful ability in D&D 5e that allows you to deal additional radiant damage to a target when you hit them with a melee weapon attack. In this article, we’ll explore how to use Divine Smite effectively, including its mechanics, when to use it, and how to combine it with other abilities.

How to Use Divine Smite

To use Divine Smite, you need to meet the following conditions:

• You must be able to cast a spell, as Divine Smite is a spell-like ability.
• You must be wielding a melee weapon.
• You must hit the target with the melee attack.

Once you’ve met these conditions, you can choose to use Divine Smite. To do so, you’ll need to expend a spell slot, and the target will take additional radiant damage.

Mechanics of Divine Smite

Here are the mechanics of Divine Smite:

• Spell Slot: Divine Smite requires a spell slot, which means you’ll need to have a spell slot available to use it.
• Radiant Damage: Divine Smite deals radiant damage, which is a type of energy damage that is particularly effective against undead creatures.
• Hit or Critical Hit: Divine Smite can be used on a hit or a critical hit. This means you can use it on a standard attack or a critical hit, whichever you prefer.
• No Concentration: Unlike some other spells, Divine Smite does not require concentration. This means you can use it without worrying about losing your concentration.

When to Use Divine Smite

So, when should you use Divine Smite? Here are some tips to help you decide:

• Undead Creatures: Divine Smite is particularly effective against undead creatures, so if you’re facing an undead creature, consider using it.
• High-Priority Targets: If you have a high-priority target, such as a boss or a powerful monster, consider using Divine Smite to deal extra damage.
• When You’re Not Using Your Bonus Action: If you have a bonus action available, consider using it to cast a spell or take another action. If you’re not using your bonus action, you can use Divine Smite instead.

Combining Divine Smite with Other Abilities

Divine Smite can be combined with other abilities to create powerful combos. Here are a few examples:

• Eldritch Smite: If you have the Eldritch Smite ability, you can combine it with Divine Smite to deal even more damage.
• Extra Attack: If you have the Extra Attack feature, you can use Divine Smite on multiple targets.
• Action Surge: If you have the Action Surge feature, you can use Divine Smite twice in a single turn.

Tips and Tricks

Here are a few tips and tricks to help you use Divine Smite effectively:

• Save Your Spell Slots: Don’t waste your spell slots on minor targets. Save them for when you really need them.
• Use Your Bonus Action: If you have a bonus action available, use it to cast a spell or take another action. This will give you more flexibility in combat.
• Communicate with Your Party: Make sure to communicate with your party about when you’re using Divine Smite. This will help them plan their attacks and avoid getting hit.

Conclusion

Divine Smite is a powerful ability that can be used to deal extra damage in combat. By understanding how to use it effectively, you can take your character to the next level. Remember to save your spell slots, use your bonus action, and communicate with your party to get the most out of Divine Smite.

Table: Divine Smite Mechanics

Bullets List: When to Use Divine Smite

• Undead Creatures
• High-Priority Targets
• When You’re Not Using Your Bonus Action

Bullets List: Combining Divine Smite with Other Abilities

• Eldritch Smite
• Extra Attack
• Action Surge