GMing Tips

So you want to run a scene or plot, but are not sure of the best way to go about it? Here are some tips that may help.

1. Plan Plots

TPs require planning. Do not try to rush this, regardless of how eager you may be to get it rolling. Think about what you want out of the TP, and what you want players to get out of it. Come up with a sequence of events that won't drag on or leave things hanging for too long, and plan for likely contingencies. When introducing the TP to players, make sure your pitch lines up with your plans, then stick to them as much as you can. That way, players are less likely to start derailing things or unintentionally taking them in a direction you do not want.

2. Be Descriptive

When you are the GM, players are depending on you to tell them what's going on in the environment that may pertain to them. Tell them about the things that are relevant to the situation at hand, but leave out superfluous information that has no bearing on the scene or isn't actionable by players.

3. Be Responsive

Both ICly and OOCly. Usually when a player does something that is meant to have an impact on their surroundings or on another character, you should respond specifically to that player's action, even if it is to simply say there is no effect. Likewise, if someone asks an OOC question, do your best to answer it in a timely fashion.

4. Be Fair

While still respecting the theme and narrative of your story, do the best you can to give each and every player character who invests in your scene a chance to shine in an equally significant way. If that means limiting the number of players involved, then don't be afraid to do so. It is better for a few people to enjoy your plot thoroughly than for too many to join in with some people ending up feeling left out, ignored, or otherwise disappointed. If there is a particular character you want to give special attention to, consider running a one-on-one scene with that player, or informing other players ahead of time about the special role.

5. Communicate!

Lastly but perhaps most importantly, communicate in an effective and timely fashion. You will most likely at some point find it difficult to balance all of these guidelines at the same time, especially when players do unexpected things. Of course, this is part of the fun. But it is important that if there is, for example, an unexpected change to your original plan for a plot, you make sure you communicate about the change to everyone involved immediately. Or, if a player or group of players starts pushing in a direction you don't want, clearly and politely inform them that you do not wish for your plot or scene to go there.