Timing & CastingBeginner
Spell in MTG
A card or copy on the stack after it has been cast and before it resolves.
Why it matters
Every nonland card becomes a spell while it is on the stack. Permanent spells enter the battlefield when they resolve; instant and sorcery spells usually go to the graveyard.
Visual example
Cast, resolve, then move
Top of stackResolves first
An instant spell that deals damage when it resolves
Cast, resolve, then move
Objects leave from the top, one at a time
- 1Choose a target and pay Lightning Bolt's cost.
- 2Put it on the stack as a spell.
- 3When it resolves, it deals damage and moves to the graveyard.
Real card example
Lightning Bolt
An instant spell that deals damage when it resolves
Common mistakes
- Playing a land is a special action, not casting a spell.
- A creature card is a creature spell only while it is on the stack.
Official rule reference
Comprehensive Rules 112 · Current Comprehensive Rules
View official rules