Dungeonmaster Tabletop Organization

[howandwhy99]

This may already be in an Archive somewhere, but...

How do you guys set up to best run a night of D&D? I mean, after reading the module, making one, tweaking it etc., I have notes, but arranging things can be tricky, especially with my players who love to go off the beaten track.
(*breath*, too many commas)

SO, here's what I've got:
a number of combat grids, a stack of random encounters for overland travel and roaming monsters, a small group of detailed NPC's I want to include (fitting adventure or ongoing storylines) and a bigger list of generic NPC's - names, gen. personalities, etc. - After all that, if I have the time, I'll add interesting travel encounters or "challenges" from printed material.

Beyond all this, I like to keep an Excel file of PC statistics on a number of relevant abilities. (stuff I'd role in secret)

Add to this dice, a calculator, pencils, DM Screen, Books and the adventure itself and you can see my dilemma.

Behind my screen it's way to cluttered. Are there any tricks out there you guys use?? Please keep in mind that I don't have a laptop, but wouldn't be adverse to setting up my PC if it's the best possible solution.


(Note, the Kalamar Screen looks might helpful)

 

[MerakSpielman]

I have the same problem. I've been resorting to having everything in one binder/clipboard and using bookmarks.

Have you started sticking things on the inside of the screen yet?

 

[Chaldfont]

Use 3x5 cards for initiative. They also make handy places for character stats and ongoing effects ("how many more rounds does that hold person last?"). I usually make up index cards for key NPCs and monsters too.

We have also started creating cards for disposable magic items. I used those business card printer sheets from Avery and threw together some art scraped from the web along with all the stats you would want to know for potions, wands and scrolls. This comes in really handy in my game since the PCs drink potions like Homer Simpson drinks beer. They find/buy a potion, I give them a card. They use it, they give it back. Everyone just puts the cards in their dice bags between sessions.

 

[Crothian]

I use a three ringed binder. Everything is orgainezed into different sections. I have maps readied, and odd encounters that can be thrown in anywhere for when PCs go off the beaten path. I have a section filled with campaign notes and NPCs that they know or have yet to run into. I always carry around extra pencils and pens and dice. I have a calculator built into the notebook along with a notpad in the back. I keep lose leaf papers in the front or the back, it's a really nice 3 ringed binder.

 

[clockworkjoe]

1. a gun.

2. a whip.

3. a bottle of jack.

4. branding irons.

5. a chair.

 

[WanderingMonster]

The only preparation I use is a cream that I smear on my [self-censored].

I seriously envy people who put all that blood, sweat, and tears into their adventures. However, my players keep coming back, so I can't suck too bad.

Actually, I try to prepare somewhat, but I use a lot of shortcuts. All the downloadable generators (esp. Jamis Bucks') have been a great boon.

 

[howandwhy99]

Response

Thanks for the responses.
(IMHO) I know from experience and from learning from other DM's I've played under that simplicity is more important than accuracy. In the past, pre-3rd edition, I've tried to keep things going and use the momentum to develop good interaction, strong roleplaying, exciting combats, etc. Now it seems that we move pretty quickly, but since the rules are actually more comprehensible, I find us refering to them more often (by request) and by following the vast majority actually slowing down. (go figure). Of course, I know that this slowing isn't the case for most other groups. So maybe it's me not being overly familiar with encounter rules, NPC attitude checks and similiar systems from previous editions. I'm trying to make these work with the group's quick, off-beat playing style, yet still have their related character scores mean something.

Okay, that sounds like a change in topic, but I really do want to know how to cut out all the paperwork, but still follow the new rules. I need something more than the combat planner in the DM Screen.

Organizational tricks are great, common mistakes for making stuff up on the fly, ways around rule bogs, ideas to breakdown DM upkeep of player info, even faster player mapping methods.

I prefer playing a quick-paced game. So any suggestions are welcome.
Are there any tricks of the trade out there??

 

[Shallown]

I use a several things.

I have a flip chart that holds 4 X 8 index cards. I can flip to summaries of every PC it also lets me keep the information for planning encounters between games. Each character takes 3 cards or so, A character sheet, notes/spells and equipment (only magical stuff or items of note)

I use a poster sized drawing pad with 1 inch squares (you can get them with 50 sheets at office supply places) So I can pre draw locals and such with grease pencils of varrious colors. I also use the borer to keep track of monster damage taken and sometimes initiative.

A dry erase board/pad about 8 x 11 for initiative and spell durations.

And usually the encounter typed out on computer (My hand writing stinks even to me) which i use for notes and to run the bad guys since I wing everything else (or have it planned out in my head). I have a preset form on the computer so I can even abreviate spells and such to look up as little as possible but I include the page number for all monsters and spells etc. so if I have to look it up I flip to the page immediately.

I use no screen since I roll in the open and have cheet sheets on my flip chart that covers most mechanics and DC's as needed.

 

[CTD]

I used to have the same problem. Gamed since the early 80's and my DM kit was a large mess hidden behind my screen. Notes, books, cards, dice, and soda!

Then I found DM's Familiar (from a link here in the electronic aids area).

It's a Godsend. Well worth the money (you can try it for a month before paying).

I have to spend setup time putting information into the program, but it's well spent. My games have become much faster and I'm much more able to do things on the fly as wierd and unexpected situations crop up. It's a great product, getting better all the time. Filled with all kinds of D20 content.

I'm currently running the Return to the Temple of Elemental Evil and DMF has made a great difference in my game. Since picking it up I've only had one session where I didn't use it (couldn't) and my players and I both could tell the difference in my ability to respond.

It would require you setting up your PC somewhere nearby, but it's well worth it in my game. Can't say enough positive about this product, check it out.

 

[Sam]

We have also started creating cards for disposable magic items. [/B]

I REALLY like this idea. I think I'm going to have to make a Staples run later today. It's kind of like the cert concept from RPGA Living campaigns. Wonder why I didn't think of this before....

I use a lot of 4"x6" index cards. I have one for each PC with major skills, feats, saves & ACs (Normal, Flat Footed, Touch) on them that I use for Initiative & HP tracking.

I have a set of "spell" cards that I created using the SRD and cut & paste onto a Word template and then printed out. This set grows with each adventure, as I try to prep by creating (or pullling the already printed card) spell cards for the NPCs.

I also have a set of "monster" cards that contains all important info on the montsters they are going to be encountering this session. These are stored in a index card file, and I staple the card to 3x5 envelope that I keep the counters in (either from Fiery Dragon's sets or from Dungeon mag). This really keeps things organized and I actually use the counters this way.

I've tried to use a laptop at the table, but it just seemed to get in the way. Now I use the PC to prep as much as possible, so there is minimal delay during the game. If I get the chance to prep the way I like to, I shouldn't have to reference the PH for a spell description, effect, duration, etc. or look at the MM for special attacks, etc.

I've gone from having a DM screen up, with a TON of stuff behind it, and a chair next to me also stacked with stuff, to no DM screen. I now just have the module/adventure and three stacks of index cards. It's also gotten me into the habit of rolling out in front of the PCs, which I've found everyone likes much better.

--Sam