Cards and Card TypesBeginner
Instant in MTG
A spell card type that can normally be cast whenever its controller has priority.
Why it matters
Instants can be cast during another player's turn and in response to spells or abilities. After an instant resolves, its card is put into its owner's graveyard.
Visual example
Cast in response
Top of stackResolves first
A simple instant that can be cast in response to another action
Cast in response
Objects leave from the top, one at a time
- 1An opponent casts a creature spell and passes priority.
- 2Cast Lightning Bolt while that spell remains on the stack.
- 3The Bolt resolves first because it was added last.
Real card example
Lightning Bolt
A simple instant that can be cast in response to another action
Common mistakes
- Instant is a card type; instant speed is informal timing language.
- An instant does not stay on the battlefield after it resolves.
Official rule reference
Comprehensive Rules 304 · Current Comprehensive Rules
View official rules