Choose a spell of 5th level or lower that you can cast, has a 1 action casting time, and can target you. You cast that spell — called the contingent spell — as part of casting contingency, expending spell slots for both, but the contingent spell doesn't come into effect. Instead, it takes effect when a certain circumstance occurs. You describe that circumstance when you cast the two spells. The contingent spell takes effect immediately after the circumstance is met for the first time, whether or not you want it to. and then contingency ends.

The contingent spell takes effect only on you, even if it can normally target others. You can use only one contingency spell at a time. Also, contingency ends on you if its material component is ever not on your person.