Inflict Wounds
Make a melee spell attack against a creature you can reach. On a hit, the target takes 3d10 necrotic damage.
At a Glance
Level
1st
School
Necromancy
Casting Time
1 action
Range
Touch
Duration
Instantaneous
Concentration
No
How Inflict Wounds Works
| Casting Time | 1 action |
|---|---|
| Range | Touch |
| Components | V, S |
| Duration | Instantaneous |
Available to:
Damage
3d10 necrotic
At Higher Levels
When you cast this spell using a spell slot of 2nd level or higher, the damage increases by 1d10 for each slot level above 1st.
Common Mistakes
Common Mistake
Forgetting you need to be in melee range (touch) to use this
Common Mistake
Not realizing this is one of the highest single-target damage spells at 1st level
Common Mistake
Thinking it automatically hits - it requires a melee spell attack roll
Common Mistake
Using this instead of a ranged option when positioning is dangerous
DM Tips
DM Tip
Highest average damage for a 1st-level single-target spell (16.5 damage)
DM Tip
Risky for squishy clerics but devastating when it hits
DM Tip
Great for frontline clerics or when used with reach features
DM Tip
Upcast at higher levels, this remains competitive damage-wise
Frequently Asked Questions
Sources & Further Reading
- Inflict Wounds — D&D 5e Wikidot — Full SRD text
- Inflict Wounds — Roll20 Compendium — Structured reference
- Inflict Wounds — D&D Beyond — Official digital reference