You DON’T have to prepare spells
In Dungeons & Dragons, spellcasters (such as wizards, clerics, druids, etc.) typically prepare spells from their spell list each day. The process of preparing spells varies slightly between different classes:
1. *Preparation Spells (Wizards, Clerics, Druids, etc.):* These spellcasters have access to a wider range of spells but must prepare a specific set of spells from their spell list after a long rest. The number of spells they can prepare is determined by their class level, ability scores, and class features. For example, a wizard prepares spells from their spellbook, a cleric prepares spells from their entire cleric spell list, and a druid chooses spells from the druid spell list.
2. *Spellbook Preparation (Wizards):* Wizards have spellbooks containing a collection of spells. Each day, they prepare a selection of spells from this book, which they can then cast using their available spell slots.
3. *Divine Prepared Spells (Clerics, Paladins):* Divine casters like clerics and paladins typically have access to their entire class spell list and prepare spells daily from these lists.
4. *Spontaneous Casters (Sorcerers, Bards):* Some spellcasters, like sorcerers and bards, do not prepare spells daily. Instead, they have a limited number of spells known and can cast any of these spells using their available spell slots.
After a long rest, spellcasters spend time in contemplation, prayer, study, or similar activities to prepare their chosen spells for the day. Once spells are prepared, the caster can use their spell slots to cast those prepared spells until they've used all their slots or until they prepare spells again during the next long rest.
The number of spells that can be prepared, the process involved, and the spell list available for preparation vary based on the character's class and level.
