Target

A target is the creature, object, or point in space that an effect is directed at. Whenever a spell, attack, or feature says "the target," it means the specific entity selected when the effect was triggered.

What can be a target:

• A creature (the most common case): a creature the attacker can see and reach/range
• An object (see Object): a weapon, a door, a wall
• A point in space: for area-of-effect spells, the center point of a sphere, the origin of a cone or line
• A square or 5-ft cube: for some hazard or terrain effects

Targeting rules:

• The caster or attacker chooses the target when the effect is initiated, within the constraints of the effect (range, line of sight, line of effect, valid target type)
• A creature must usually be seen to be targeted; targeting an unseen creature is possible but imposes disadvantage on the attack roll, and the attacker must guess the target's location
• Line of effect: an unobstructed path from the caster/origin to the target. Total Cover blocks line of effect entirely; partial cover does not.
• Valid target types: a spell that says "a creature" cannot target an object; one that says "a creature or object" can target either; one that says "a willing creature" requires the target's consent or a friendly attitude

Multiple targets:

• Some spells allow multiple targets (e.g., magic missile, eldritch blast, scorching ray)
• The caster chooses each target independently, and each must meet the targeting requirements
• All targets must typically be within range of the caster, not of each other

Targeting yourself: A creature can target itself with any effect that says "a creature" unless the effect specifies "another creature" or "a creature other than yourself."

Invalid targets: If a chosen target is invalid (out of range, behind total cover, not the right type), the effect fails with no resource refunded unless the rule says otherwise.