Guidance
You touch one willing creature. Once before the spell ends, the target can roll a d4 and add the number rolled to one ability check of its choice. It can roll the die before or after making the ability check. The spell then ends.
At a Glance
Level
Cantrip
School
Divination
Casting Time
1 action
Range
Touch
Duration
Concentration, up to 1 minute
Concentration
Yes
How Guidance Works
| Casting Time | 1 action |
|---|---|
| Range | Touch |
| Components | V, S |
| Duration | Concentration, up to 1 minuteCONCENTRATION |
Available to:
ClericDruid
Common Mistakes
Common Mistake
Trying to use it in combat for attack rolls or saves - it only works on ability checks
Common Mistake
Forgetting it requires concentration, so you can't spam it on multiple people at once
Common Mistake
Not having the target declare they're using it before rolling the ability check
Common Mistake
Thinking the d4 can be added after seeing the result of the check (it can, but must be before knowing success/failure)
DM Tips
DM Tip
One of the most-used cantrips in the game for good reason
DM Tip
Can be cast right before ability checks like picking locks, searching, persuading, etc.
DM Tip
The 1-minute duration means it can be cast right before entering a room or starting a conversation
DM Tip
Consider whether constantly casting Guidance might annoy NPCs or take too much table time
Sources & Further Reading
- Guidance — D&D 5e Wikidot — Full SRD text
- Guidance — Roll20 Compendium — Structured reference
- Guidance — D&D Beyond — Official digital reference