Half level and attribute bonuses

[DrSkull]

Do players add the 1/2 level modifier to their attribute bonuses in general, but more specifically to their damage rolls.

Say Joe the Fighter has Str 16 (+3), he uses Cleave with his great axe and does 1d12+3 damage, when he's first level.

When he's 2nd level does he do 1d12+4, since now his 1/2 level bonus equals +1?

I guess I'm confused, since it seems that monsters have a level bonus to their attribute modifiers. Or is it that the 1/2 level modifier bonus is only to rolls on a d20?

 

[JeffJ2112]

I'm pretty sure that the 1/2 level doesn't go to damage rolls.

 

[Lucas Blackstone]

The damage roll uses the stat modifier. The attack roll uses the stat modifier + many other things, one of which is 1/2 your level. Skill checks also utilize the 1/2 level bonus and your defenses include 1/2 level modifier.

 

[Jdvn1]

Easiest way to keep it straight in my opinion? The WotC character sheet. It tells you when to add in 1/2 level and when not to.

 

[Kordeth]

I guess I'm confused, since it seems that monsters have a level bonus to their attribute modifiers. Or is it that the 1/2 level modifier bonus is only to rolls on a d20?

Those aren't the monster's ability score modifiers, they're the monster's adjusted bonus for untrained skill checks and ability checks.

+1/2 your level is always added to a d20 roll, not to a static bonus.