D&D newbie looking for first ever game and character build help

Hi,

New player, never played a game and barely even know where to start with a character build. I have a rough idea of the kind of character I would like to make but would really appreciate some help and would love to find a group to play with.

Located UK (GMT+0) can play most Wednesday to Saturday given notice.

What is your general idea? I sit at home doing naught but build characters to see what they could potentially do... I may be able to make sime suggestions. 

I was thinking Half-Elf Ranger, sort of no nonsense, punch people for annoying me kinda personality, not too much focus on magic but maybe a couple of utility type spells. But tbh I have no idea where to even start with character building. 

I need advise on what traits, spells, abilities and stat distribution would be good.

I've never played before, and have only seen videos of other people playing which is what sparked my interest.

Any advice would be appreciated.

Well rangers normally start with Dex and Wis as their top Abilities. Str and Con would be next if you're planning on getting into brawls. Int and Cha may be your dump stats as just punching random people is neither smart nor kind. 

You may want to focus on dueling as it gives your character bonus with melee attacks. Skills like intimidation knowledge and survival as well as insight deception and athletics could help. 

Background of soldier wouldn't hurt. Pick the chaotic neutral personality traits or come up with your own. Think Han Solo from Star Wars..  Maybe a bit darker. Baba Fett maybe. 

Pick a weapon that has finesse so you can apply your dex mod to dmg. 

Spells: Barkskin unless your armor + Dex already beat AC16. Goodberry heals 1HP, but you need NO rations to worry about Ever, but you're burning a spell slot. (But like you said, Utility) Cute Wounds to heal yourself or others. Summon bestial spirit can help you out A Lot when you can get it. And longstrider so you can dash on every turn and increase your speed by 10. Basically a GTFO

I am brand new too and I’m the same boat as Grezza. I can do Monday or Wednesday nights around 8 pm EST. I hope that works for some of your games. 

Also with one shots does that mean you have to create a new character each game? Or am I able to continue to use them for a future game?

Half elf with no clue looking for beginner games, new to d+d, don't have a schedule, very haphazard.

Hi 

The bright dawn?

Looking for a starter game, can you hook a half elf up,