How Many Skills Should a Bard Have?
As a bard, you’re a master of music, performance, and storytelling. With your charisma and charm, you can mesmerize audiences and inspire your allies. But, with so many skills to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which ones to focus on. In this article, we’ll explore the answer to the question: How many skills should a bard have?
At First Level
According to the official D&D 5E rules, at first level, players can choose three skills for their bard to be proficient in, as well as up to three different types of musical instruments to be proficient in playing. This is a great starting point, as it allows you to specialize in a few areas while still leaving room for growth and development.
The Bard’s Class Skills
The bard’s class skills are:
• Appraise (Int): Appraising the value of an object or determining the quality of a work of art.
• Balance (Dex): Maintaining your balance and avoiding falls.
• Bluff (Cha): Deceiving others by creating a false impression.
• Climb (Str): Scaling walls and climbing steep surfaces.
• Concentration (Con): Focusing your mind and avoiding distractions.
• Craft (Int): Creating objects using your skills and materials.
• Decipher Script (Int): Deciphering written texts and codes.
• Diplomacy (Cha): Negotiating and persuading others.
• Disguise (Cha): Disguising yourself and adopting a new identity.
• Escape Artist (Dex): Escaping from restraints and difficult situations.
• Gather Information (Cha): Gathering information and rumors.
• Hide (Dex): Hiding and remaining concealed.
• Jump (Str): Jumping and navigating obstacles.
• Knowledge (all skills, taken individually): Acquiring knowledge and expertise.
Choosing Your Skills
When choosing your skills, consider the following:
• Focus on your strengths: Choose skills that play to your bard’s strengths, such as Diplomacy, Performance, and Intimidation.
• Support your party: Choose skills that can support your party, such as Healing, Medicine, and Survival.
• Be versatile: Choose skills that can be used in a variety of situations, such as Persuasion, Deception, and Insight.
Table: Bard Skills
| Skill | Description | Relevant Ability |
|---|---|---|
| Appraise | Appraising the value of an object or determining the quality of a work of art. | Int |
| Balance | Maintaining your balance and avoiding falls. | Dex |
| Bluff | Deceiving others by creating a false impression. | Cha |
| Climb | Scaling walls and climbing steep surfaces. | Str |
| Concentration | Focusing your mind and avoiding distractions. | Con |
| Craft | Creating objects using your skills and materials. | Int |
| Decipher Script | Deciphering written texts and codes. | Int |
| Diplomacy | Negotiating and persuading others. | Cha |
| Disguise | Disguising yourself and adopting a new identity. | Cha |
| Escape Artist | Escaping from restraints and difficult situations. | Dex |
| Gather Information | Gathering information and rumors. | Cha |
| Hide | Hiding and remaining concealed. | Dex |
| Jump | Jumping and navigating obstacles. | Str |
| Knowledge | Acquiring knowledge and expertise. | All skills |
Multiclassing
If you’re considering multiclassing as a bard, keep in mind that Rogue levels are the best for bards. Rogue levels provide access to Sneak Attack, which can be a powerful addition to your bard’s abilities.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when it comes to choosing skills as a bard, three skills is a good starting point. Focus on your strengths, support your party, and be versatile. Remember to consider your bard’s abilities and playstyle when choosing your skills. With the right skills, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a master bard.