Abilities

Every task that a character or monster might attempt in the game is covered by one of the six abilities. Abilities represent a character's physical and mental attributes. The six abilities are:

• Strength: Physical power and athleticism.
• Dexterity: Agility, reflexes, and balance.
• Constitution: Endurance and stamina.
• Intelligence: Reasoning and memory.
• Wisdom: Perception and insight.
• Charisma: Force of personality and social influence.

Is a character muscle-bound and insightful? Brilliant and charming? Nimble and hardy? Ability scores define these qualities - a creature's assets as well as weaknesses.

The three main rolls of the game - the ability check, the saving throw, and the attack roll - rely on the six ability scores.

The basic rule behind these rolls: roll 1d20, add an ability modifier derived from one of the six ability scores, and compare the total to a target number.