How to Roll Stats in D&D 5e
Creating a new D&D character starts with ability scores — the six numbers that define your character's Strength, Dexterity, Constitution, Intelligence, Wisdom, and Charisma. There are several official methods to generate these scores, each with different trade-offs between randomness and balance. Here's everything you need to know.
Method 1: Rolling 4d6 Drop Lowest (Most Popular)
The most popular method at most tables: roll four six-sided dice, remove the lowest die, and sum the remaining three. This gives you a score between 3 and 18, with an average of about 12.24. Repeat six times — once for each ability score — then assign them to your abilities however you choose. This method tends to create slightly above-average characters, which is why most groups prefer it. The randomness adds excitement to character creation, and you might end up with an unexpectedly strong or weak stat that shapes your character's story.
Method 2: Standard Array
The standard array gives you a fixed set of scores: 15, 14, 13, 12, 10, 8. Assign each number to one ability. Every character created this way has the same total points, making it the fairest option for groups that want balance. The downside is that every character feels a bit samey — you'll never roll an 18 or get stuck with a 5. The standard array is great for one-shots, organized play (Adventurers League), or tables where fairness matters more than randomness.
Method 3: Point Buy
Point buy gives you 27 points to spend on ability scores. Each score starts at 8, and increasing a score costs points: raising from 8 to 13 costs 1 point per increase, but 14 costs 2 extra points and 15 costs 2 more. Scores can't go below 8 or above 15 (before racial bonuses). This method gives players maximum control over their build while maintaining balance. It's popular with optimizers and is used in D&D Adventurers League.
Method 4: Rolling 3d6 Straight (Old School)
The classic method from early editions: roll 3d6 for each ability in order (Strength, Dexterity, Constitution, Intelligence, Wisdom, Charisma). No rearranging. This creates truly random characters — you might get a wizard with 6 Intelligence or a fighter with 18 Strength. The average score is 10.5, lower than 4d6 drop lowest. Some old-school groups love this method for its unpredictability and the challenge of playing whatever fate gives you.
Which Method Should You Use?
Ask your DM — they decide which method the table uses. If you have a choice: use 4d6 drop lowest for a classic D&D experience with some randomness, standard array for quick and balanced character creation, point buy for maximum build control, or 3d6 straight if you want an old-school challenge. Many DMs also use house rules like "roll 4d6 drop lowest, reroll if total is below 70" to prevent underpowered characters.
Tips for Assigning Ability Scores
Once you have your six scores, assign the highest to your class's primary ability: Strength for fighters and barbarians, Dexterity for rogues and rangers, Intelligence for wizards, Wisdom for clerics and druids, Charisma for bards, sorcerers, warlocks, and paladins. Constitution is important for every class (it determines your hit points), so don't dump it. Put your lowest score in the ability your class uses least.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best method for rolling D&D stats?
4d6 drop lowest is the most popular and widely recommended method. It creates slightly above-average characters while keeping the excitement of random rolling. Standard array and point buy are better for groups that prioritize balance.
Can I reroll bad stats in D&D?
That's up to your DM. Many DMs allow a reroll if your total modifier sum is below a threshold (commonly +0 or +1) or if no score is above 13. Some DMs let you reroll your lowest score. Always check with your DM before rerolling.
What ability score does my class need?
Each class has a primary ability: Barbarian/Fighter → Strength, Rogue/Ranger/Monk → Dexterity, Wizard → Intelligence, Cleric/Druid → Wisdom, Bard/Sorcerer/Warlock/Paladin → Charisma. Constitution is universally important for hit points.
What is the average score with 4d6 drop lowest?
The average is approximately 12.24, compared to 10.5 for straight 3d6. The most common result is 13, and there's roughly a 9.3% chance of rolling an 18.