What is the Difference Between an Action and a Bonus Action?
In the world of D&D 5e, understanding the difference between actions and bonus actions is crucial for optimal character performance and combat strategy. In this article, we will delve into the definition and distinction between the two, as well as provide examples and clarifying points to ensure a complete understanding.
What is an Action?
According to the Player’s Handbook, an action is a main activity you take on your turn that can be anything from an attack, casting a spell, or taking a shield. Actions are declared at the start of the turn and are processed in the order they were declared. A character has one action on their turn, unless otherwise specified, and can take additional reactions or bonus actions.
Types of Actions:
• Attack: Making an attack on an opponent.
• Cast a Spell: The act of casting a magic spell.
• Solve a Puzzle: Participating in problem-solving within the game.
• Move: Moving the character up to their speed.
• Use an Item: Using an item, potion, or scroll.
What is a Bonus Action?
A bonus action is an optional activity you can take, in addition to your single action, during your turn. Bonus actions do not need to be declared at the start of your turn and can be taken at any point until the start of your next turn. Not all spells or abilities allow for a bonus action, so players must carefully read the spells and abilities to determine the availability of a bonus action.
Types of Bonus Actions:
• Cast an Additional Spell: Casting an extra spell on top of an action.
• Ability Score Improvement: Improving an ability score.
• Skill Check: Completing a skill check using a bonus action.
• Move: Moving while taking a bonus action to disengage.
What are the Key Differences Between Actions and Bonus Actions?
• Declaration Order: Actions are declared at the start of the turn, while bonus actions are taken at any point after the action is declared, but before the start of the next turn.
• Availability: Not all spells or abilities allow for a bonus action, so players must carefully read to determine availability.
• Processing Order: Actions are processed in the order they were declared, while bonus actions are processed immediately after their declaration.
Examples to Clarify the Difference:
• A rogue wishes to take a bonus action to disengage from the combat and then take another action to attack. However, they do not possess the ability to disengage as a bonus action; they can only disengage as an action.
• A wizard has a 1st-level spell available that allows for a bonus action to cast an extra spell. The wizard wants to cast the spell then take a bonus action to cast another spell. It is possible, as they have the ability to use a bonus action to cast an extra spell.
In conclusion, understanding the differences between actions and bonus actions is crucial for optimizing character performance and combat strategy. By defining the types of actions, bonus actions, and clarification points, we can achieve a better comprehension of what each represents and how it can be utilized in various situations. Remember to closely read spell descriptions and game mechanics to determine the suitability of a bonus action or action for your character, and to adjust your actions accordingly to ensure optimal strategy.