Wizard Spell List — D&D 5e
Wizards are arcane scholars with the largest spell list in D&D 5e, mastering reality through study and intellect. They prepare spells from their spellbook each day and can learn new spells by copying them from scrolls and other spellbooks. Their versatility and raw magical power make them the ultimate spellcasters.
At a Glance
Casting Stat
Intelligence
Spell List Type
prepared
Prepare Formula
Intelligence modifier + wizard level
Ritual Casting
Yes
Cantrips Known
3 at 1st level, increasing to 5 at 10th level
Unique Mechanic
Wizards learn new spells by copying them into their spellbook (50gp and 2 hours per spell level). They can cast any spell in their spellbook as a ritual without preparing it if it has the ritual tag. Arcane Recovery lets them recover spell slots once per day during a short rest (total spell levels = half wizard level rounded up).
Key Spells
The most impactful spells on the Wizard list and why they matter.
| Spell | Level | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Find Familiar | 1st | Summons a familiar for scouting, delivering touch spells, and advantage through Help action |
| Shield | 1st | Reaction spell granting +5 AC until your next turn, can turn hits into misses |
| Misty Step | 2nd | Bonus action teleport 30ft, incredible mobility and escape tool |
| Counterspell | 3rd | Reaction to stop enemy spells, essential for high-level play |
| Fireball | 3rd | Iconic AoE damage spell hitting 20ft radius for 8d6 fire damage |
| Hypnotic Pattern | 3rd | Incapacitates multiple enemies with no repeated saves, concentration control spell |
| Polymorph | 4th | Transform ally into Giant Ape for temp HP or enemy into turtle to disable them |
| Wall of Force | 5th | Impenetrable wall that doesn't allow saves, no concentration, splits battlefield |
| Minor Illusion | Cantrip | Create sound or image, limited only by creativity for utility and tactics |
| Prestidigitation | Cantrip | Swiss army knife of minor magical effects for utility and roleplay |
Common Mistakes
Common Mistake
Not copying spells from scrolls and captured spellbooks - wizards should actively hunt for new spells
Common Mistake
Forgetting Arcane Recovery during short rests - it's once per long rest, so use it
Common Mistake
Preparing too many damage spells and not enough control/utility options
Common Mistake
Using concentration spells when you already have a better concentration spell active
Common Mistake
Not ritually casting Detect Magic, Alarm, or Comprehend Languages to preserve slots
Common Mistake
Forgetting that you can cast ritual spells from your spellbook without preparing them
DM Tips
DM Tip
Place spell scrolls and enemy spellbooks as treasure to reward wizard investment in their class
DM Tip
High-level wizards with Counterspell create magical duels - prepare interesting spell interactions
DM Tip
Wall of Force has no saving throw and blocks everything except teleportation - plan enemy counters
DM Tip
Wizards with Find Familiar can scout extensively - design areas with anti-scrying or familiar-resistant threats
DM Tip
Simulacrum and Clone at high levels can break campaigns - establish world rules for these spells early
Sources & Further Reading
- Wizard Spells — D&D 5e Wikidot — Full SRD spell list
- Wizard — D&D Beyond — Official class reference
- Wizard Spell List — RPGBOT — Spell ratings and analysis