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5e Calculate Health

Reviewed by Calculator Editorial Team

In Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition (5e), your character's health is determined by hit points (HP). This calculator helps you determine your character's HP based on class, level, and constitution modifier.

How to Calculate 5e Health Points

Calculating your character's hit points in D&D 5e involves several steps. First, determine your hit dice based on your class. Then, calculate your hit points at each level using your constitution modifier.

Note: This calculator assumes you're using the standard array method for ability scores. If you're using point buy or another method, you may need to adjust your constitution modifier accordingly.

Step-by-Step Calculation

  1. Choose your character's class and level.
  2. Determine your constitution modifier based on your constitution score.
  3. Calculate your hit points at first level.
  4. Calculate your hit points at each subsequent level.
  5. Sum all your hit points to get your total HP.

Hit Dice by Class

Each class in D&D 5e has a specific hit die that determines the base amount of hit points you gain at each level:

  • Barbarian: d12
  • Bard: d8
  • Cleric: d8
  • Druid: d8
  • Fighter: d10
  • Monk: d8
  • Paladin: d10
  • Ranger: d10
  • Rogue: d8
  • Sorcerer: d6
  • Warlock: d8
  • Wizard: d6

The Formula Explained

The basic formula for calculating hit points in D&D 5e is:

Hit Points at First Level = Hit Die + Constitution Modifier

Hit Points at Each Subsequent Level = Average Hit Die + Constitution Modifier

Where:

  • Hit Die is the die associated with your character's class (e.g., d12 for Barbarian)
  • Constitution Modifier is calculated as (Constitution Score - 10) / 2
  • Average Hit Die is the average roll of the hit die (e.g., 7 for a d12)

For example, a level 5 Fighter with a constitution score of 16 would have:

  • Constitution Modifier = (16 - 10) / 2 = +3
  • First Level HP = d10 + 3 = 10 + 3 = 13
  • Each Subsequent Level HP = 5.5 (average d10) + 3 = 8.5
  • Total HP = 13 + (4 × 8.5) = 13 + 34 = 47

Worked Example

Let's calculate the hit points for a level 3 Fighter with a constitution score of 14.

  1. Class: Fighter (d10 hit die)
  2. Level: 3
  3. Constitution Score: 14
  4. Constitution Modifier: (14 - 10) / 2 = +2
  5. First Level HP: d10 + 2 = 10 + 2 = 12
  6. Each Subsequent Level HP: 5.5 (average d10) + 2 = 7.5
  7. Total HP: 12 + (2 × 7.5) = 12 + 15 = 27

So, this Fighter would have a total of 27 hit points at level 3.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I calculate my constitution modifier?

The constitution modifier is calculated by subtracting 10 from your constitution score, then dividing by 2 and rounding down. For example, a constitution score of 16 gives a modifier of +3.

What happens if I roll a 1 on my hit die?

Rolling a 1 on your hit die is possible but not ideal. You would add your constitution modifier to 1, which could result in very low hit points at first level. This is why many players prefer to use the average hit die for calculations.

Can I use this calculator for monsters?

This calculator is designed for player characters. Monsters have different rules for calculating hit points, which are not covered by this tool.

What if I multiclass?

Multiclassing complicates hit point calculation. Each class contributes hit points based on its hit die, and you use your total level to determine your proficiency bonus and other features. This calculator does not account for multiclassing.