Prep Like a Pro: Streamline Your GM Session Preparation

Every Game Master knows the struggle: between work, life, and gaming, finding time to prep can feel like an epic quest. But fear not, intrepid GMs! You can conquer prep fatigue with smart techniques that will save you time and keep your game running smoothly. Let’s dive into how you can prep like a pro.

Embrace Modular Prepping

Modular prepping is a lifesaver for any GM looking to streamline their session preparation. By creating interchangeable scenes and encounters, you can reuse content across different sessions, saving you time and energy.

• Create Scene Templates: Design flexible templates for common encounters, like tavern brawls or bandit ambushes, that you can easily tweak for different scenarios.
• Prepare Modular NPCs: Develop generic NPCs with simple personality traits and motivations that fit various roles in your campaign.

Leverage Existing Resources

Why reinvent the wheel? There's a treasure trove of published materials and online generators available to fill in the gaps of your campaign.

• Use Published Adventures: Incorporate modules and adventure paths to provide structure and inspiration.
• Online Generators: Utilize tools like NPC or dungeon generators to produce content on the fly.

For tools that can aid in speeding up your prep, consider using digital solutions like campaign management apps or Ultimate Game Master’s campaign planner sheets.

Adopt the "Lazy GM" Style

Inspired by Sly Flourish’s Lazy Dungeon Master approach, focus your prep on high-impact areas and embrace improvisation.

• Focus on Key Elements: Prioritize crucial NPC motivations and broad story strokes over minute details.
• Improvise When Needed: Use your creativity in the moment to fill out less critical areas of your game.

Optimize Your Game Master Screen

Equip your UGM Screen with useful reference materials to reduce on-the-fly searching and enhance your confidence during sessions.

• Reference Quick Stats: Keep monster stats and encounter tables on your screen for quick access.
• Include Random Tables: Prepare die-roll tables for those unexpected moments, keeping your game dynamic and engaging.

Conclusion

By implementing these strategies, you can minimize prep time and prevent burnout, freeing up more time to enjoy the creative and social aspects of being a GM. Remember, it's all about working smarter, not harder!

What prep strategies have worked best for you? Share your advice in the comments below, and let's continue to support each other in our GM journeys. Don’t forget to check out the Ultimate Game Master’s resources for even more tips and tools!