An attack roll determines whether an attack hits a target. An attack roll hits if the roll equals or exceeds the target’s Armor Class. Attack rolls usually occur in battle, described in “Combat” later in “Playing the Game,” but the GM might also ask for an attack roll in other situations, such as an archery competition. Ability Modifier The Attack Roll Abilities table shows which ability modifier to use for different types of attack rolls. Attack Roll Abilities AbilityAttack Type StrengthMelee attack with a weapon or an Unarmed Strike (see “Rules Glossary”) DexterityRanged attack with a weapon VariesSpell attack (the ability used is determined by the spellcaster’s spellcasting feature, as explained in “Spells”) Some features let you use different ability modifiers from those listed. For example, the Finesse property (see “Equipment”) lets you use Strength or Dexterity with a weapon that has that property. Proficiency Bonus You add your Proficiency Bonus to your attack roll when you attack using a weapon you have proficiency with, as well as when you attack with a spell. See “Proficiency” later in “Playing the Game” for more information about weapon proficiencies.