Ability check: Difference between revisions

<div style="text-align: center;"> Calculation: {{InfoBlob|{{D20}} + Ability Score Modifier + (when applicable) proficiency Bonus}}</div>

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== Skills and proficiency ==

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Most ability checks are associated with a specific [[Skills|skill]]. If a creature is proficient with an ability check's associated skill, they may add their proficiency bonus to the results of that roll, in addition to the relevant ability score modifier. These rolls are often referred to as ''skill checks'' by the community, although they are not referred to as such in-game.

[[Expertise]] in a skill allows a creature to add {{em|double}} its proficiency bonus. Expertise usually comes from specific class features.

Some ability checks are automatic. For example, when a creature approaches an unactivated trap, the game rolls a [[Perception]] ability check to determine whether the creation notices the trap. Perception is a Wisdom Skill, so the character adds their Wisdom modifier and, if proficient in Perception, their proficiency bonus to the ability check. Once the trap is discovered, the character can interact with it to attempt to [[Disarm]] it, which requires a successful [[Sleight of Hand]] check, a Dexterity Skill.

Ability checks are also common during dialogue, where some responses require a ability check to determine the outcome. Examples include using Charisma-based skills like [[Persuasion]], [[Deception]] or [[Intimidation]] to influence others, or Intelligence-based Skills like [[Investigation]], [[History]] or [[Religion]] to determine or remember facts.

A contest is a special type of ability check in which two creatures both roll an ability check to oppose each other, and one wins over the other. The creatures don't necessarily roll the same type of check.