How to Use the HP Calculator
Learn how to calculate hit points for your D&D 5e characters with our comprehensive step-by-step guide.
Quick Start Guide
Our D&D 5e HP Calculator makes it easy to determine your character's hit points at any level. Follow these simple steps to get started:
Step 1: Select Your Class
Choose your character's class from the dropdown menu. Each class has a different hit die size that determines your base hit points.
Step 2: Enter Your Level
Input your character's current level (1-20). The calculator will automatically determine how many hit dice you have.
Step 3: Add Constitution Modifier
Enter your Constitution ability score modifier. This bonus is added to your hit points at every level.
Step 4: Choose Calculation Method
Select between "Average" (recommended) or "Roll" for hit point calculation. Average uses the standard D&D 5e rules.
Detailed Instructions
Understanding Hit Points in D&D 5e
Hit points represent your character's health and ability to withstand damage. They're calculated using your class's hit die, your Constitution modifier, and your character level.
Hit Die by Class
- d6: Sorcerer, Wizard
- d8: Artificer, Bard, Cleric, Druid, Monk, Rogue, Warlock
- d10: Fighter, Paladin, Ranger
- d12: Barbarian
Constitution Modifier
Your Constitution modifier is calculated from your Constitution ability score:
- Score 8-9: -1 modifier
- Score 10-11: +0 modifier
- Score 12-13: +1 modifier
- Score 14-15: +2 modifier
- Score 16-17: +3 modifier
- Score 18-19: +4 modifier
- Score 20: +5 modifier
Calculation Methods
Average Method (Recommended)
Uses the average value of your hit die plus Constitution modifier. This is the standard method used in D&D 5e:
- d6: 4 hit points per level
- d8: 5 hit points per level
- d10: 6 hit points per level
- d12: 7 hit points per level
Roll Method
Simulates rolling dice for each level. This method can result in higher or lower hit points depending on your rolls.
Calculation Examples
Example 1: Level 5 Fighter
Character Details:
- Class: Fighter (d10 hit die)
- Level: 5
- Constitution: 16 (+3 modifier)
- Method: Average
Calculation:
Level 1: 10 (max hit die) + 3 (Con mod) = 13 HP
Levels 2-5: 4 levels × (6 + 3) = 4 × 9 = 36 HP
Total: 13 + 36 = 49 HP
Example 2: Level 3 Wizard
Character Details:
- Class: Wizard (d6 hit die)
- Level: 3
- Constitution: 14 (+2 modifier)
- Method: Average
Calculation:
Level 1: 6 (max hit die) + 2 (Con mod) = 8 HP
Levels 2-3: 2 levels × (4 + 2) = 2 × 6 = 12 HP
Total: 8 + 12 = 20 HP
Tips and Best Practices
Character Creation Tips
- High Constitution: Consider a Constitution score of 14+ for better hit points
- Tough Feat: The Tough feat gives you +2 HP per level
- Hill Dwarf: Gets +1 HP per level from racial trait
- Draconic Sorcerer: Gets +1 HP per level from subclass
Multiclassing Considerations
When multiclassing, you gain hit points based on the hit die of the class you're taking a level in. Our calculator currently handles single-class characters, but you can manually calculate multiclass hit points by adding the appropriate hit die for each level.
Important Note
Always consult your Dungeon Master for final hit point calculations, especially for multiclass characters or when using house rules.
Common Questions
Q: What if my Constitution modifier changes?
If your Constitution score increases (through ability score improvements or magic items), you gain additional hit points equal to your new modifier for each level you have. If it decreases, you lose hit points accordingly.
Q: How do temporary hit points work?
Temporary hit points are separate from your maximum hit points and are added on top. They don't stack with each other - you only keep the highest amount.
Q: What about the Tough feat?
The Tough feat gives you +2 hit points per level. You can add this manually to your calculated total if your character has this feat.
Ready to Calculate Your Hit Points?
Now that you know how to use our HP Calculator, try it out with your character!
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