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Message: <blockquote data-quote="thorgrit" data-source="post: 6842374" data-attributes="member: 61124">Most of what needs to be said has been said already, but I do want to point out one thing. The 5e ruleset was designed as exceptions-based. So, all the rules you need to know about bonus actions are what you quoted, exactly--until you come upon an exception.  Basic rule is you don't get a bonus action unless something gives it to you.  The rogue's class feature is an exception to that, allowing them to do various specified things as bonus actions.  The cleric spells you mention are also exceptions to the general rule, allowing the cleric to use a bonus action to cast a spell (if they have it) and also do a regular action.  Another general rule is you can use a bonus action at any time during your turn. An off-hand attack is an exception to this rule, sort of, because you only get the option to use it as a bonus action if you make an attack with your main hand.  There are many other exceptions, but unless you have a player option (race, class, spell, magic item, etc) that specifies it, you don't need to worry about it.The previous edition of D&D, 4e, was a bit more technical in specifying what action options you had available. While it's mostly similar (and similar to 3e too), 5e decided to try to simplify the wording. What you most need to worry about is just performing an Action, and moving around up to your listed speed. If you have other options, they'll be listed as you create / level your character.As for whether the Player's Handbook reads any better, I don't really think so.  Everything in the Basic Rules is cut down from the PHB. The main thing might be the PHB might have more examples of play, but any additional rules text would be to support options that aren't in the Basic Rules. Since you're just starting out, I can't recommend getting a PHB until you're more invested in the game and know you'll want to play more with expanded player character options. (If you're interested, more races/classes/spells are available in the <a href="https://dnd.wizards.com/articles/features/systems-reference-document-srd" target="_blank">System Reference Document</a>, which is also a free resource.)</blockquote>

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