Polymorph

This spell transforms a creature that you can see within range into a new form. An unwilling creature must make a Wisdom saving throw to avoid the effect. The transformation lasts for the duration, or until the target drops to 0 hit points or dies. The new form can be any beast whose challenge rating is equal to or less than the target's (or the target's level, if it doesn't have a challenge rating). The target's game statistics are replaced by the beast's statistics, but it retains its alignment and personality. The creature is limited in actions it can perform by the nature of its new form. It can't speak, cast spells, or take any action requiring hands or speech. The target's gear melds into the new form. When it reverts to its normal form, the creature returns to the number of hit points it had before it transformed.

At a Glance

Level
4th
School
Transmutation
Casting Time
1 action
Range
60 feet
Duration
Concentration, up to 1 hour
Concentration
Yes

How Polymorph Works

Casting Time1 action
Range60 feet
ComponentsV, S, M (a caterpillar cocoon)
DurationConcentration, up to 1 hourCONCENTRATION
Saving ThrowWisdom (unwilling creatures only)

Available to:

BardDruidSorcererWizard

Common Mistakes

Common Mistake
Polymorphing into creatures above the target's CR or level
Common Mistake
Allowing spellcasting or speech in beast form
Common Mistake
Forgetting that excess damage doesn't carry over when reverting
Common Mistake
Not enforcing that the creature uses the beast's mental stats (Intelligence, Wisdom, Charisma)

DM Tips

DM Tip
Common forms: T-Rex (CR 8) for damage, Giant Ape (CR 7) for utility, Giant Owl (CR 1/4) for flyby scouting
DM Tip
This spell is essentially bonus hit points equal to the new form's HP
DM Tip
When used on enemies, low-CR forms like frogs or turtles effectively remove them from combat
DM Tip
Consider whether beasts in the setting are available for the caster to have seen/know about

Sources & Further Reading