Rolling Ability Scores with 3d6
In the original editions of Dungeons & Dragons, players created characters by rolling 3d6 for each of the six ability scores: Strength, Dexterity, Constitution, Intelligence, Wisdom, and Charisma. Each roll produces a result between 3 and 18, with 10-11 being the most common outcome.
This method creates characters with a wide range of strengths and weaknesses. Rolling a 15 or higher is uncommon, and an 18 is genuinely rare (less than a 0.5% chance). That randomness is part of the appeal for players who enjoy working with whatever the dice give them rather than building an optimized character from the start.
3d6 Distribution at a Glance
Three six-sided dice produce a bell curve across 3 to 18, with most rolls clustering around the middle. Here is how the results break down by range.
| Range | Totals | Probability |
|---|---|---|
| Very low | 3 - 5 | 4.6% |
| Below average | 6 - 8 | 20.4% |
| Average | 9 - 12 | 50.0% |
| Above average | 13 - 15 | 20.4% |
| Exceptional | 16 - 18 | 4.6% |
Half of all 3d6 rolls land between 9 and 12, which is why D&D treats 10 as the baseline for an ordinary person. Scores at either extreme are rare, making them feel meaningful when they do show up.
3d6 vs 4d6 Drop Lowest
Modern D&D (5th Edition) replaced the classic 3d6 method with "roll 4d6 and drop the lowest die." This shifts the average from about 10.5 up to around 12.2 and makes very low scores much less likely. The result is a set of ability scores that skews higher, producing more capable, heroic characters out of the gate.
The 3d6 method is still popular among players who prefer old-school play or want character creation to feel more unpredictable. Some groups even roll 3d6 in order (assigning each roll to abilities in sequence) to fully embrace the randomness.