Post/Author/DateTime	Post
#1 SenecaP Jul 03, 2014 21:22:07	The spells Fire Bolt and Guiding Bolt both reference the action "ranged spell attack". What are bonuses for this? +Int modifier and/or +Proficiency bonus? That seems a bit high.
#2 AaronOfBarbaria Jul 03, 2014 22:19:49	Spell attacks, of both ranged and melee variety, are detailed on page 81 of the basic rules PDF.   They, like all other attacks in the game, use an ability modifier (from your spellcasting ability, specifically) and your proficiency bonus.   If that seems high, then I would say it is because you are thinking of it outside of context; you still have to match your target's Armor Class with your roll, just like if you were using a weapon, so you really only have the same chance to hit with your spell as a fighter would have to hit with their weapon of choice.
#3 KarLorian Jul 03, 2014 22:54:13	PG 81 of the Basic Rules PDF in the bottom left hand corner.   "Your attack bonus with a spell attack equals your spellcasting ability modifier + your proficiency bonus."   So your hunch was correct, in my opinion it's not all that high. These spell's attack rolls are on par with weapon users who add STR or DEX mod + Prof Bonus when they attack.
#4 Psikerlord Jul 04, 2014 5:26:56	also if you use ranged attacks (inc spells) in melee, you suffer disadvantage. So they're a lot worse than a melee attack in melee.
#5 Devilbass Jul 04, 2014 9:30:04	All of the above answers are correct.   I think Aaron's comments are probably accurate.  I know some of my friends that still think Touch AC is a thing, and I have to keep reminding them that it is not.