Timing & CastingIntermediate
Priority in MTG
The permission a player needs to cast most spells, activate abilities, or take certain actions.
Why it matters
One player has priority at a time. When every player passes without adding anything, the top object on the stack resolves—or the game advances if the stack is empty.
Visual example
Pass or respond
Top of stackResolves first
A spell whose controller passes priority
A response cast before Lightning Bolt resolves
Objects leave from the top, one at a time
- 1Lightning Bolt is cast; its caster receives priority again.
- 2The caster passes, giving the opponent a chance to respond.
- 3The opponent casts Counterspell before Lightning Bolt can resolve.
Real card example
Lightning Bolt
A spell whose controller passes priority
Common mistakes
- A spell does not resolve immediately after it is cast.
- Players do not receive priority during every turn-based action, including declaring attackers or blockers.
Official rule reference
Comprehensive Rules 117 · Current Comprehensive Rules
View official rules