How do you role getting new spells?

[Li Shenron]

Hi, I don't know if I'm over-analyzing this but, how do wizards learn new spells?.

It's kind of odd that the wizards gain a level a just like that a new spell pops up in their heads.

they need no training, they just learn how to use it, it's effects, the range, etc.

Its ok for a videogame, but for a D&D where you are roleplaying it's kind of weird.

what are your thoughts about it?

The same issue can be raised about anything any character learns. How did the Fighter learn this new combat trick? How did the Rogue improved his lockpicking?

Thank WotC, D&D does not force any gaming group into explaining everything.

Most gaming groups just don't bother with explaining how it happens, it's just faded to the background: maybe the Wizard has been reading books and practicing in the evenings when not in a dungeon.

At the same time, nobody prevents each player to come up with some explanations if they wish.

And if the whole gaming group agrees, you can introduce your own house rules (or import them from another RPG) for how to detail each character's training instead.

 

[Squire James]

I make my players re-enact a training montage. One or more chickens must be involved in it somehow.

 

[Meatboy]

I'll agree with most of the other replies and say handwaving is probably best. Because if you aren't asking why the fighter suddenly learned that neat trick then it probably doesn't matter how the mage learned their spell.

 

[Starfox]

What i do:

Level-up spells are hand-waved.

Spellbook spells are often taught by a mentor or guild if you have one. if not, you either hire a teacher (standard spellcasting fees) go to a bookstore and bye an old spellbook. Lots of dead wizard's spellbooks going around. Scrolls are an option too, but usually more expensive.