The Ultimate D&D 5e Hit Points Guide
For Multiclass Characters & Beginners

Introduction

In Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition, a character’s hit points (HP) define their resilience in the face of danger. Whether you’re a seasoned Dungeon Master or a newcomer rolling up your first adventurer, mastering HP calculation ensures balanced gameplay and informed character choices. Multiclassing adds further complexity, combining hit dice from different classes. This comprehensive guide covers every aspect of HP calculation—hit dice, Constitution modifiers, rolling versus averaging, multiclass rules, feats, racial traits, and common pitfalls. By the end, you’ll have clear, practical examples for single-class and multiclass characters, empowering you to optimize survivability from level 1 through level 20.

Understanding Hit Dice and Constitution Modifiers

Each class in D&D 5e uses a specific hit die (HD): d6 for wizards, d8 for clerics and rogues, d10 for fighters, and d12 for barbarians. At 1st level, you take the maximum result of your hit die and add your Constitution modifier. From levels 2 onward, you either roll your hit die or use the die’s average (recommended for consistency), then add your Constitution modifier again. For example, a 3rd-level cleric (d8 HD) with a Constitution score of 14 (+2 modifier) has:

• Level 1: 8 (HD max) + 2 (Con) = 10 HP
• Levels 2–3 (average): (5 [average of d8] + 2 Con) × 2 = 14 HP
• Total HP: 10 + 14 = 24

Rolling vs. Average HP

Choosing between rolling for HP or taking the average influences campaign tone. Rolling adds unpredictability and excitement but may leave characters underpowered if they roll low. Averages guarantee a minimum HP floor, smoothing out extremes. The average for each die is calculated as:

• d6 → 4
• d8 → 5
• d10 → 6
• d12 → 7

Many groups adopt a house rule: roll once, then use the average for subsequent levels. This balances randomness with fairness.

Class-by-Class Examples

Detailed examples help clarify HP progression for different classes:

1. Wizard (d6 HD, +1 Con):
   Level 1: 6 + 1 = 7
   Levels 2–5 average: (4 + 1) × 4 = 20
   Total at Level 5: 7 + 20 = 27 HP
2. Fighter (d10 HD, +3 Con):
   Level 1: 10 + 3 = 13
   Levels 2–5 average: (6 + 3) × 4 = 36
   Total at Level 5: 13 + 36 = 49 HP

Multiclass HP Rules

When multiclassing, each level’s hit die corresponds to the class you leveled up in. You add the hit die (roll or average) plus Constitution modifier for every level. For example, a 4th-level Fighter/1st-level Wizard with +2 Con modifier calculates as:

• Fighter Lv1: 10 + 2 = 12
• Fighter Lv2–4 avg: (6 + 2) × 3 = 24
• Wizard Lv1: 6 + 2 = 8
• Total HP: 12 + 24 + 8 = 44 HP

Feats and Racial Bonuses

Certain feats and racial traits modify HP:

• Tough Feat: Grants +2 HP per level.
• Hill Dwarf: Grants +1 HP per level.
• Barbarian’s Unarmored Defense: Not a direct HP increase but reduces damage taken.

Include these extras after calculating base HP. A level 5 Hill Dwarf fighter with Tough and +3 Con (+1 racial, +2 feat) adds:

(1 HP racial + 2 HP feat) × 5 levels = 15 extra HP

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Determine your hit die (d6, d8, d10, d12) based on class.
2. Note your Constitution modifier.
3. Choose rolling or average method for levels ≥2.
4. Calculate HP per level and sum all levels.
5. Add any feats or racial bonuses.

Common Pitfalls & Tips

• For high-multiclass builds, track each class’s die separately to avoid errors.
• If you change your Constitution score mid-campaign, HP does not retroactively adjust unless your DM allows.
• Discuss rolling averages with your group early to set expectations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I mix rolling and average?

Yes, many players roll for early levels and switch to average for consistency later.

Does temporary HP count?

Temporary HP (from spells or abilities) does not increase your maximum HP and resets after rest.

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Official Rules

For full details, consult the D&D 5e SRD.

Disclaimer

This guide provides general information and sample calculations. Always follow your Dungeon Master’s rulings and official sourcebooks for final determinations.