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I stink at winging it- HELP!
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<blockquote data-quote="Fanaelialae" data-source="post: 5213700" data-attributes="member: 53980"><p>Don't Panic!</p><p></p><p>Instead, when your players do something you didn't expect, take a moment to think about it. It's easiest if it happens during a conversation, as you can roleplay the NPC giving thoughtful consideration to the question while you come up with an answer. If you're having trouble coming up with an answer outside of a conversation, stall for time while you think of something. For example, if the PCs go down an alley to sneak into the village jail, describe the drunken hobo startled by them. Sometimes these stalling tactics may even grow into part of the story (the PCs decide to befriend the hobo or pay him for information). Most often they won't in any significant sense, but they'll buy you enough time to decide how secure the side entrance to the jail might be.</p><p></p><p>If you get really stuck, call for a short break (smoke/bathroom/whatever) and give the scenario some thought away from the table. </p><p></p><p>Most importantly though, accept that it isn't necessarily going to be a masterpiece. If something you improvise is functional, you've done yourself proud. Running off the cuff is more art than science (IMO). Give it some time and practice, and you'll see yourself improve.</p></blockquote><p></p>
[QUOTE="Fanaelialae, post: 5213700, member: 53980"] Don't Panic! Instead, when your players do something you didn't expect, take a moment to think about it. It's easiest if it happens during a conversation, as you can roleplay the NPC giving thoughtful consideration to the question while you come up with an answer. If you're having trouble coming up with an answer outside of a conversation, stall for time while you think of something. For example, if the PCs go down an alley to sneak into the village jail, describe the drunken hobo startled by them. Sometimes these stalling tactics may even grow into part of the story (the PCs decide to befriend the hobo or pay him for information). Most often they won't in any significant sense, but they'll buy you enough time to decide how secure the side entrance to the jail might be. If you get really stuck, call for a short break (smoke/bathroom/whatever) and give the scenario some thought away from the table. Most importantly though, accept that it isn't necessarily going to be a masterpiece. If something you improvise is functional, you've done yourself proud. Running off the cuff is more art than science (IMO). Give it some time and practice, and you'll see yourself improve. [/QUOTE]
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