### The ability is poorly written, and the intent is clear. 

I admit, in a strict RAW sense, you can either choose 1+level or 0. [Sculpt spell](https://www.dndbeyond.com/classes/wizard#SchoolofEvocation) says:

> you can choose a number of them equal to 1 + the spell’s level.

 Sometimes strictly RAW readings give less than desirable results - this is one of those cases. 

Let’s consider [*fireball*](https://www.dndbeyond.com/spells/fireball) at 3rd level. My friend is engaged in melee combat with two enemies, and I’d like to blast them with *fireball* without torching my friend. 

Here is what a strict reading of the ability means:

> I have the skill to shape my *fireball* around four allies, but not one, two, or three. Oh, and if I upcast *fireball* to 4th level, I forget how to shape it around four and can only do five. 

This is silliness. Just let it be a number of creatures *up to* 1 + the spell’s level.