Just based on a few sessions I've run recently with less experienced players...
BE PREPARED - KNOW YOUR CHARACTER!
As a player, the design of your character sheet is terribly important. The sheet produced by Wizards' Character Builder is acceptable, but you can probably design a better one. Whatever sheet you use, become familiar with the layout, so that when your DM asks you a question you can give him the answer quickly without spending five minutes looking it up.
When it gets to your turn, you should already have the relevant sheets (or power cards) in hand. This is not the time to start shuffling papers, looking for the sheet that has your powers on it: you have plenty of time whilst it is the other players' turns to get ready. Use that time!
Likewise, make sure the dice you need are within easy reach. Learn what each dice looks like. The d10 and d8 do look markedly different, and you shouldn't be confused which is which.
Also, for much of the game, whenever the DM asks you, "Do you hit?", the answer will be come from the roll of the d20. Make sure that die is always close to hand.
Cheers!
BE PREPARED - KNOW YOUR CHARACTER!
As a player, the design of your character sheet is terribly important. The sheet produced by Wizards' Character Builder is acceptable, but you can probably design a better one. Whatever sheet you use, become familiar with the layout, so that when your DM asks you a question you can give him the answer quickly without spending five minutes looking it up.
When it gets to your turn, you should already have the relevant sheets (or power cards) in hand. This is not the time to start shuffling papers, looking for the sheet that has your powers on it: you have plenty of time whilst it is the other players' turns to get ready. Use that time!
Likewise, make sure the dice you need are within easy reach. Learn what each dice looks like. The d10 and d8 do look markedly different, and you shouldn't be confused which is which.
Also, for much of the game, whenever the DM asks you, "Do you hit?", the answer will be come from the roll of the d20. Make sure that die is always close to hand.
Cheers!