Your Complete Guide to Understanding the D&D Proficiency Bonus Table

If you’re a fan of tabletop games, then you’re probably familiar with Dungeons & Dragons (D&D). This game has been around since the 1970s and has become a staple in the world of gaming. While there are many different aspects of the game, one of the most important is the proficiency bonus table. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about it, including how it works and why it’s essential.

What is the Proficiency Bonus Table?

The proficiency bonus table is a crucial part of D&D. It represents the base bonus that a character receives when making an ability check or performing a related action. The proficiency bonus is added to the dice roll, which then determines the success or failure of the action being taken. The bonus starts at +2 for a first-level character and increases as the character gains levels.

How Does it Work?

Every character in D&D has proficiency in certain skills and tools. These proficiencies are detailed in the character sheet, and they affect the proficiency bonus table. For example, a character with proficiency in Stealth would receive the proficiency bonus when making a Stealth check.

The proficiency bonus table is based on the character’s level. At first level, the bonus is +2, but it increases as the character gains experience points. The table ranges from +2 to +6, depending on the character’s level. Characters who multiclass have a combined proficiency bonus based on their individual levels.

Why is it Important?

The proficiency bonus table is essential for both players and Dungeon Masters (DMs). It provides a way to determine the proficiency of a character and affects the outcomes of their actions. Understanding the table is crucial for ensuring a fair and balanced game. DMs also use the proficiency bonus table to set the difficulty of encounters and create balanced challenges for their players.

Examples

To better understand the proficiency bonus table, let’s look at some examples.

Example 1: A first-level character with a proficiency bonus of +2 attempts to pick a lock. The DM sets the difficulty of the lock at 15. The character rolls a 12 on the dice, and their proficiency bonus of +2 is added, making their total score 14. The attempt fails.

Example 2: A fifth-level character with a proficiency bonus of +3 attempts to track a hostile creature through a forest. The DM sets the difficulty of the check at 20. The character rolls a 16 on the dice and adds their proficiency bonus of +3, making their total score 19. The attempt fails.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the proficiency bonus table is a crucial part of D&D gameplay. It’s crucial to understand how it works to ensure you’re playing the game correctly and fairly. The table affects the outcomes of character actions and provides a way to set the difficulty of encounters. Remember to consult the table regularly during gameplay and ensure that both players and DMs are using it correctly.