How Many Spells Can a Wizard Prepare by Level?
As a wizard, you have the ability to prepare a certain number of spells based on your level. This can be a crucial aspect of your gameplay, as it determines how many spells you can cast in a given day. In this article, we will explore the answer to this question and provide some additional insights on how to make the most of your spell preparation.
The Basic Rule
The basic rule for preparing spells is that you can prepare a number of spells equal to your Intelligence modifier plus your level. For example, if you have an Intelligence modifier of +2 and you are level 5, you can prepare 7 spells (2 + 5).
The Class Table
In addition to the basic rule, the class table for wizards provides some additional guidance on how many spells you can prepare at each level. The table is as follows:
| Level | Spells Prepared |
|---|---|
| 1st | 3 cantrips, 4 1st-level spells |
| 2nd | 3 cantrips, 5 1st-level spells, 2 2nd-level spells |
| 3rd | 3 cantrips, 5 1st-level spells, 3 2nd-level spells, 1 3rd-level spell |
| 4th | 3 cantrips, 5 1st-level spells, 4 2nd-level spells, 2 3rd-level spells |
| 5th | 3 cantrips, 5 1st-level spells, 5 2nd-level spells, 3 3rd-level spells, 1 4th-level spell |
| 6th | 3 cantrips, 5 1st-level spells, 6 2nd-level spells, 4 3rd-level spells, 2 4th-level spells |
| 7th | 3 cantrips, 5 1st-level spells, 7 2nd-level spells, 5 3rd-level spells, 3 4th-level spells, 1 5th-level spell |
| 8th | 3 cantrips, 5 1st-level spells, 8 2nd-level spells, 6 3rd-level spells, 4 4th-level spells, 2 5th-level spells |
| 9th | 3 cantrips, 5 1st-level spells, 9 2nd-level spells, 7 3rd-level spells, 5 4th-level spells, 3 5th-level spells, 1 6th-level spell |
| 10th | 3 cantrips, 5 1st-level spells, 10 2nd-level spells, 8 3rd-level spells, 6 4th-level spells, 4 5th-level spells, 2 6th-level spells |
Cantrips and Spells
It’s worth noting that cantrips and spells are different. Cantrips are low-level spells that can be cast at will, without using up a spell slot. Spells, on the other hand, are higher-level spells that require a spell slot to cast.
Additional Insights
Here are some additional insights to keep in mind when preparing spells:
- Prioritize your most powerful spells: When preparing spells, prioritize your most powerful spells first. This will ensure that you have the most effective spells available to you when you need them.
- Keep a variety of spells prepared: It’s a good idea to keep a variety of spells prepared, including cantrips, 1st-level spells, and higher-level spells. This will give you flexibility and options when you’re in combat.
- Consider your enemies: When preparing spells, consider the types of enemies you’re likely to face. If you’re going up against a group of goblins, for example, you may want to prepare spells that are effective against them, such as fireball or lightning bolt.
- Don’t forget about your cantrips: Cantrips are often overlooked, but they can be very useful in combat. Make sure to keep a few cantrips prepared, such as Mage Hand or Prestidigitation.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the number of spells a wizard can prepare by level is determined by their Intelligence modifier and level. The class table provides some additional guidance on how many spells you can prepare at each level. By prioritizing your most powerful spells, keeping a variety of spells prepared, considering your enemies, and not forgetting about your cantrips, you can make the most of your spell preparation and be a more effective wizard in combat.