Prep Like a Pro: Efficient Techniques for Game Masters

One of the most common challenges faced by Game Masters is not having enough time to prepare for their sessions. Prep fatigue is real, but it doesn't have to be inevitable. By employing smart preparation techniques, GMs can minimize burnout and enhance the enjoyment they get from running games. Let's dive into some effective strategies that can help you prep like a pro!

Understanding Modular Prep

Modular prepping involves creating interchangeable scenes that can be easily reused across different sessions or even campaigns. This technique not only saves time but also provides flexibility during gameplay.

Why Modular Prep Works

• Reuse: Saved scenes can be reintroduced without much modification, saving time and effort.
• Flexibility: Having a pool of prepared scenes allows for greater adaptability when players take unexpected turns.

Consider creating a few impactful scenes with varying monsters, NPCs, or puzzles that you can slot into your games as needed.

Leverage Published Materials and Online Resources

Don’t reinvent the wheel—utilize existing resources to fill in the gaps. Many published adventures and online generators can provide inspiration and content that can be easily integrated into your sessions.

• Published Adventures: These provide ready-made narratives that can save you hours of prep time.
• Online Generators: From name generators to encounter builders, these tools can offer valuable assistance in the prep phase. Check out platforms like Roll20 and D&D Beyond for handy tools.

The "Lazy GM" Style

Adopting a laid-back approach to GMing, like the "Lazy Dungeon Master" methodology, focuses on essential elements that drive the story forward.

• Focus on NPC Motivations: Understanding what drives your key NPCs can enhance story depth without extensive prep.
• Broad Strokes: Plan in terms of broad themes rather than meticulous detail to keep your sessions dynamic and flexible.

For more detailed insights, consider checking out Sly Flourish's Lazy Dungeon Master, a popular resource that offers excellent advice for streamlined preparation.

Use Digital Tools for Speed

Incorporating digital tools into your preparation can significantly reduce the time needed to get ready for a session.

• Campaign Management Apps: Applications like Notion or Trello help organize your campaign notes efficiently.
• UGM Campaign Planner Sheets: These printable tools allow GMs to map their entire session comprehensively, covering important aspects at a glance.

The Ultimate Game Master Screen

The UGM Screen is a fantastic tool for on-the-fly referencing. Keep essential information such as monster stats or random encounter tables readily accessible to reduce prep efforts while ensuring everything you need is at your fingertips.

Conclusion

By approaching session prep with these efficient strategies, Game Masters can minimize the time spent preparing while maximizing the quality of their games. Remember, working smarter, not harder, is the key to a sustainable GMing experience. Implement some of these tips in your next session and experience the difference for yourself. Enjoy the journey and, most importantly, have fun!

For more insights and resources, be sure to check out our Ultimate Game Master Guide.