5
\$\begingroup\$

What is my rogue's Stealth modifier?

Here's my attempt to calculate it:

  • My Dexterity modifier is +4.
  • I have proficiency in Stealth and Dex saving throws, so I think that’s another +4 (+2 and +2).
  • Then I have Expertise; I’m not sure whether it will double my proficiency in Stealth to make my total Stealth bonus a +10, or double both my saving throw proficiency and my Stealth proficiency to make my total Stealth bonus a +12.
\$\endgroup\$
3

2 Answers 2

Reset to default
29
\$\begingroup\$

Your total Stealth mod is +8.

Your mistake here is that you are adding your proficiency with Dexterity saving throws to your total. This is incorrect. Saving throws are a special kind of die roll, separate from the (related) ability check and attack roll. Saving throws are generally reactionary; the DM will ask you to make one in response to certain kinds of threats. Skills are used proactively, that is, generally the DM will call for a ability check when you are trying to accomplish something.

Stealth is a skill. Thus, to calculate the corresponding modifier for Stealth checks, you will apply the related ability modifier (for Stealth, the corresponding ability is Dexterity; your Dex mod is +4, as you stated) and your proficiency bonus (if you are proficient; at level 1, this is +2). Since you chose Stealth as one of the skills you have Expertise in, this last number is doubled.

Thus, when you make a Stealth check, you roll a d20 and add:
+4 (Dex) + [+2 (Proficient) * 2 (Expertise)]
for a total of +8.

\$\endgroup\$
2
  • 2
    \$\begingroup\$ It may be worth mentioning that (afaik) you never combine the proficiency bonus from 2 different sources on a roll. \$\endgroup\$
    – fabian
    Commented May 17, 2020 at 7:11
  • \$\begingroup\$ @fabian: Not relevant here, but Xanathar's suggests (and the OneD&D playtest rules specifically recommend) granting advantage in cases where two different sources of proficiency apply. e.g. Xanathar's suggests advantage on Stealth checks on wood flooring if you have proficiency in Carpenter's Tools (your know enough about wood construction to avoid squeaky floorboards). OneD&D made Sleight of Hand usable for lockpicking (previously only Thieves' Tools Proficiency applied to lockpicking); having Sleight of Hand and Thieves' Tools Prof would mean perma-advantage. Not additive, still relevant. \$\endgroup\$
    – ShadowRanger
    Commented Mar 1, 2023 at 14:04
3
\$\begingroup\$

You did not state your level, so I will work with lvl 1-4.

When you make a Stealth attempt, roll d20, add proficiency (+2)and add DEX modifier (+4). Then Expertise allows you to add your proficiency again. This adds up to a total of +8 to your roll.

Any bonus to Saving Throws does not apply.

\$\endgroup\$

You must log in to answer this question.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged .