To make a ranged spell attack in 5e, roll a d20 and add your spell attack bonus. Your spell attack bonus equals your proficiency bonus + your spellcasting ability modifier.

For example, if you’re a Wizard, Intelligence as your spellcasting ability. If you have an Intelligence score of 18, your spellcasting ability modifier is +4.

If you’re level 4, your proficiency bonus is +3. Add them together to get a spell attack bonus of +7.

So, to make a ranged spell attack, you’d follow these steps:

1. Choose a target within the spell’s range (listed in the spell’s description)

2. Roll a d20

3. Add your spell attack bonus

4. If the result meets or exceeds the target’s AC, the attack hits; if not, it misses

If you’re unsure of your spellcasting ability modifier or proficiency bonus, consult the tables below to calculate your ranged spell attack bonus.

Note: If a hostile creature is within 5 feet of you when you make a ranged spell attack, you have disadvantage on the attack roll. This means that you roll 2d20 and choose the lower number when making your attack.

Spellcasting Ability by Class

Proficiency Bonus by Level

Player’s Handbook, pg. 205 + 195