I just started dnd and if I have a spell prepared with a casting time. do I still need to wait for the casting time or does it cast instantly with my action? Thanks
Generally, prepared means you have the option of casting the spell that day. Doing so will use a spell slot. As far as timing, in the description, it will say “Casting time: Something” Typically it will be 1 Action, but it may also be a bonus action, reaction, or in some cases, it can be something like 1 minute or 10 minutes or 1 hour. You then spend that amount of time and a spell slot, and you cast the spell. So, if it’s 1 action, you can’t also attack on that turn, because attacking is also an action. But if the spell is 1 Bonus Action, you can cast it, and then also attack.
You can mix and match which spell you cast with the slot. If you run out of slots, you can no longer cast spells. But all slots refresh at the end of a long rest.
Side note, as this is in the paladin board, you can use a spell slot to do extra damage with your smite. I’ll go out on a limb and say that’s how probably 90% of your spell slots will be spent.
I just started dnd and if I have a spell prepared with a casting time. do I still need to wait for the casting time or does it cast instantly with my action? Thanks
Which spell?
Generally, prepared means you have the option of casting the spell that day. Doing so will use a spell slot. As far as timing, in the description, it will say “Casting time: Something” Typically it will be 1 Action, but it may also be a bonus action, reaction, or in some cases, it can be something like 1 minute or 10 minutes or 1 hour. You then spend that amount of time and a spell slot, and you cast the spell. So, if it’s 1 action, you can’t also attack on that turn, because attacking is also an action. But if the spell is 1 Bonus Action, you can cast it, and then also attack.
You can mix and match which spell you cast with the slot. If you run out of slots, you can no longer cast spells. But all slots refresh at the end of a long rest.
Side note, as this is in the paladin board, you can use a spell slot to do extra damage with your smite. I’ll go out on a limb and say that’s how probably 90% of your spell slots will be spent.
What’s the casting for time?
Preparing spells has absolutely nothing to do with casting them. They are two separate things. I recommend re-reading chapter 10 of the rules: (https://www.dndbeyond.com/sources/basic-rules/spellcasting).
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