Abilities and EffectsIntermediate

Triggered Ability in MTG

An ability that begins with when, whenever, or at and triggers automatically.

Why it matters

A triggered ability watches for its trigger event. Once that event happens, the ability is put on the stack the next time a player would receive priority, even if its source has already left the battlefield.

Visual example

Put a trigger on the stack

Top of stackResolves first
Soul Warden

Triggers whenever another creature enters the battlefield

Put a trigger on the stack
Objects leave from the top, one at a time
  1. 1A creature enters while Soul Warden is on the battlefield.
  2. 2Soul Warden's whenever ability triggers automatically.
  3. 3Put the trigger on the stack; when it resolves, its controller gains one life.

Real card example

Soul Warden

Triggers whenever another creature enters the battlefield

Common mistakes

  • A triggered ability does not need to be activated or paid for unless it asks for a payment later.
  • Removing the source usually does not remove an ability already on the stack.

Official rule reference

Comprehensive Rules 603 · Current Comprehensive Rules

View official rules