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I'm reading the basic books but this doesn't get explained. Let's have an example: a PC is attacking an AC16 orc with a sword (he's proficient in swords). He rolls a 13 + STR bonus (+ 2) + Proficiency bonus (+ 2) = 17, it's a hit. Now it's the orc's turn, he rolls a 10 (+ 2) STR bonus + ...proficiency bonus??

Nacho Sáenz
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    Hello Nacho, and welcome to the site! Kindly take the [tour] and enjoy your stay! Are the two +2's in your computation the strength and proficiency bonuses? You might want to [edit] your question to make it a bit clearer. Thanks! – kviiri Jun 14 '19 at 12:17
  • @erazorv4 Please do not answer in a comment. See this meta post for more information. – Sdjz Jun 14 '19 at 12:21
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    I'm not sure this is a good dupe, the linked question is effectively about how to read monster stat blocks, but this question seems to be about whether or not NPCs even have a proficiency bonus in the first place. The example given just happens to be an attack roll - it could have easily been a saving throw or ability check. – Carcer Jun 14 '19 at 13:00
  • Do they have one to begin with, or what do they get to add it to? I could see this question as it's written applying to either. – Stop Being Evil Jun 14 '19 at 18:13
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    Nacho, could you clarify for us whether the linked question answers your point of confusion, and if not, what exactly you're asking about? (Are you asking whether they have a proficiency bonus at all?) – V2Blast Jun 14 '19 at 20:55

1 Answers1

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Yes, NPCs and monsters have proficiency bonuses too

Monsters have proficiency bonuses and get to use them when appropriate, just like player characters do. While a PC's proficiency bonus is based on their level, a monster's proficiency bonus is based on their CR, according to this table - from a simple +2 at CR 0 to a maximum of +9 for CR 30 creatures.

The stats blocks for published monsters will already be applying the monster's proficiency bonus where appropriate. For example, the CR1/2 Orc has a greataxe attack:

Greataxe. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 9 (1d12 + 3) slashing damage.

That +5 attack bonus includes the Orc's +3 Strength modifier and their +2 proficiency bonus as a CR 1/2 creature.

Carcer
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