Cast

Keywords · beginner

To cast a spell means to take a card (or copy) from a zone, put it on the stack as a spell, choose its modes and targets, and pay its costs.

How it works

• Casting follows a strict sequence: move the card to the stack, make choices (modes, targets, how to pay), then pay the costs. The spell is now "cast."
• The spell sits on the stack until it resolves or is countered.

Rules notes

• Casting is distinct from putting a permanent onto the battlefield. Reanimation, token creation, copy effects, and "put onto the battlefield" effects are NOT casting.
• Only actual casting triggers "whenever you cast" abilities and adds to storm count.
• An ability that puts a copy of a spell on the stack does not cast that copy.

Rule reference

[701.5]