How to Deny in DotA

Last Updated: September 15, 2021

In DotA 2, to deny is to kill an allied unit so that the enemy cannot get the gold and only 25% of the XP from its death. In most cases, lane creeps and towers can be denied. And sometimes, while under certain spell effects, even heroes can be denied.

Method 1

Method 1 of 2:

Using Attack Key

1
Stand within range. This is important, especially for melee heroes, so that you are fast enough to attack that creep before the enemy gets it. But keep a reasonable distance in case the enemy hero is ranged, you don't wanna get harassed.
2
Press "A". This is the attack command that can be used on both enemies and allies.

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3
When the target sign comes out, click on your allied unit that has low health. The unit's health must be 10% or less to be targeted.
4
Press "S" right after your allied unit died to prevent your hero from auto-attacking enemies and move back to safety.

Method 2

Method 2 of 2:

Using Right Click

1
Press on the cog on the top left of the main page.
2
Go to the Options tab.
3
Enable the setting Right-Click to Force Attack. This option allows you to right click your creeps, towers, and allied heroes if they are within deny range.

Warnings

Never try to deny a hero if you think he can survive the effects of a spell, the effects of the spell are about to wear off or can be purged, or there's an allied hero with spells/items to heal him nearby.

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