Investigation

Associated Ability: Intelligence

Your Intelligence (Investigation) check is used when searching for clues and drawing conclusions from them. You might figure out where a hidden item is, analyze a wound to determine the weapon used, or identify the weak point of a tunnel that could lead to its collapse. Researching ancient texts for hidden information may also require an Intelligence (Investigation) check.

Passive Investigation Passive Investigation is a way to use your Investigation skill even when you’re not actively searching. It automatically helps you notice subtle clues, hidden inconsistencies, or unusual details in your environment, such as forged documents, tampered locks, or misplaced objects, before you consciously begin investigating (see Passive Checks in this chapter for more details).

DCTypeDescription
5EasyFind obvious clues in a tidy room.
10SimpleNotice signs of forced entry or tampered locks.
13HardSpot inconsistencies in a crime scene or hidden compartments.
15ChallengingDeduce the motive behind a series of strange events or clues.
20ImpressiveUnravel a complex mystery with scarce or cryptic clues.