10 Vital Tips for Beginner D&D Dungeon Masters

(Assuming you’re running Lost Mines of Phandelver for 7 beginner players)

Running a game for 7 beginner players in DnD 5th Edition can be a challenging but rewarding experience. As a beginner Dungeon Master (DM), there are some key points to keep in mind to help you ensure a successful and enjoyable game:

1. Know the rules: Familiarize yourself with the core rulebooks, especially the Player’s Handbook, Dungeon Master’s Guide, and Monster Manual. You don’t need to know every rule by heart, but having a solid understanding of the basic mechanics will help you run the game smoothly.
2. Prepare ahead of time: Read through the entire Lost Mines of Phandelver adventure and take notes to help you remember important NPCs, locations, and plot hooks. This will help you stay on track during the game and provide a more immersive experience for your players.
3. Be flexible: Players will often surprise you with their actions and decisions. Be prepared to adapt to their choices and allow them to explore the world you’ve created. Remember that it’s their story too, so let them have an impact on the narrative.
4. Manage the group size: Seven players can be a lot to handle, so be mindful of giving everyone a chance to participate. Encourage role-playing and interaction between characters to help build camaraderie and keep everyone engaged.
5. Simplify combat: With a large group, combat can become slow and tedious. Consider using tools like average damage for monsters or group initiative to speed up the process. Be mindful of the pacing and be prepared to adjust encounters if they’re taking too long.
6. Help your players: As beginners, your players will likely have questions about the rules and their characters. Be patient and help them understand the mechanics, providing guidance and support when needed. Encourage them to work together and share their knowledge as they become more familiar with the game.
7. Set the mood: Use vivid descriptions, music, and sound effects to bring your game world to life. This will help immerse your players in the story and make for a more memorable experience.
8. Encourage role-playing: Reward players for good role-playing, creative problem-solving, and teamwork. This will help them become more invested in their characters and the story, as well as develop their skills as players.
9. Communicate with your players: Check in with your players regularly to ensure they’re enjoying the game and to address any concerns or feedback they might have. This will help you tailor the experience to suit their preferences and create a more enjoyable game for everyone.
10. Have fun: Remember that the ultimate goal is for everyone to have a good time. Be prepared to laugh, improvise, and go with the flow. As a DM, your enthusiasm and enjoyment of the game will be contagious, helping your players to have a great time as well.