Wizard Spellcasting Reference 5e

[Cryptocartographer]

I wanted to really break down the spellcasting process for some new players. I started with wizards, as they are probably the most complex casters with the most misunderstood abilities and limitations. The result was this flow chart and lexicon, available as a PDF here: https://www.jayrobinson.net/spellcasting-5e-wizard.

The main thing I learned is that my wizard players weren't considering some of the important checks on their powers. Of course, that effectively nerfs every other class by comparison. I also figured out that wizards are really tuned for players who like fetch quests, spreadsheets, checklists, and pop-up reminders. In future, I will likely try to steer the more swashbuckly players toward another spell class.

If this proves useful to people, I plan to work my way through the casting classes and produce similar reference sheets. Cleric next, probably.

 

[JohnnFour]

This is great.

Something I've noticed challenges new players are spell slots and spells known. It would be cool to see those rules summarized in a box too.

 

[Cryptocartographer]

This is great. Something I've noticed challenges new players are spell slots and spells known. It would be cool to see those rules summarized in a box too.

Its a tricky subject to explain concisely. I'm working on some language that I hope will at least remind a player who has read the paragraphs in the PHB.

 

[Cryptocartographer]

Updated and improved! Logic tree tweaked! More info for new players. Same link: https://www.jayrobinson.net/spellcasting-5e-wizard.

I included a section explaining categories of spells: In spellbook, prepared, available for casting with spell slot. I hope it's a useful resource for new wizards.

 

[JochenL]

The new version has two YES leaving the first box.

 

[JohnnFour]

Are there any references that aren't to the PHB? If not, then you could remove "PHB" from all boxes and make a note below. Save some character space maybe.

 

[Cryptocartographer]

The new version has two YES leaving the first box.

Fixed, and thanks. Late-night editing will get you every time.

 

[Cryptocartographer]

Are there any references that aren't to the PHB? If not, then you could remove "PHB" from all boxes and make a note below. Save some character space maybe.

I managed to fit it all in, although my old art history professor is whispering "horror vacui" in my ear. I think it's a more-complete reference now, with the blurbs on spellbook vs. prepared vs. slots.

Thank you for the input, and if you get a chance to look at the new version, I'd welcome your take on whether my explanations of the above seem reasonable.