Dungeons & Dragons
DM's Quick Start Guide 5e

Dungeons & Dragons Logo
What is a Dungeons Master?

The Dungeon Master (DM) is the storyteller, referee and world builder. You describe the world, control the monsters and NPC's (non-player characters), and guide the players through their adventure. You job is to facilitate fun, not memorize every rule.

If you are new to Dungeons & Dragons you should read up on the basics before you start your first campaign. We have a Quick Start Guide that we recommend reading through to give you an idea of how a game will play out.

What Do You Need?

  • Players 2-5 ideal for beginners.
  • Dice Set D20 is essential, full set is ideal | Dice Roller.
  • D&D Adventure or your own homebrew story.
  • Basic Rules or Player's Handbook.
  • DM Screen (optional, but ideal for a quick references).
  • Notebook or Digital Notes.
  • Character Sheets | Quick Character Generator.
  • Battle Maps & Minis (optional but usefull for combat).

Read Through an Adventure

Starting with a pre-written adventure like:

  • Lost Mine of Phandelver (ideal beginner module)
  • Dragons of Stormwreak Isle (into boxed set)

Read the first few chapters before your session so you are familiar with the following:

  • The setting and key NPC's
  • The opening hook, why are the players edventuring?
  • The first encounters and the locations

Know the Core Rules

You don't need to memorize everything, focus on the following basics:

🎲 The D20 System

Most interactions in D&D use this formular:
D20 + Modifier = Difficulty Class (DC)

  • Use ability checks for exploration and challenges
  • Use attack rolls for combat
  • Use saving throws when players resist danger

🛡️ Combat Basics

  • Roll initiative to set the turn order of the party. (D20 + Dexterity)
  • On each turn, players can do the following:
    • Move (up to their speed)
    • Perform an Action (attack, spell, dash, etc)
    • Bonus Action or Reaction
  • Monsters/NPC's take their turn like players

🧠 Rule of Thumb

If you are unsure about a rule, make a quick call and keep the game moving forward. You can always look it up later, you don't want to kill the parties fun.

Running a Game

🗣️Describe the World

  • User the five senses to bring the world alive
  • Give players the choices and react to their decisions

🧍 NPC's and Monsters

  • Speak in different voices for variety
  • Use simple monster stats from the Monster Manual or Basic Rules

🧩 Skill Checks

  • Decide if a task is difficult or risky
  • Set a Difficulty Class (DC) (usually 10-15)
  • Have the players roll and add the relevant modifier

Roleplaying and Storytelling Tips

  • Let the players shine, focus on their characters
  • Encourage creativity and problem-solving
  • Be flexible, say "Yes, and..." when possible
  • Don't railroad players, adapt your story if needed

Preparing for your First Session

  • Session Length: Plan for 2-3 hours
  • Goals: Introduce the world, let players meet each other and run a simple combat
  • Print or Prepare:
  • Have Extra Dice, pencils, and snacks!

Your Role as Dungeon Master

  • Be fair and consistent
  • Keep the game flowing
  • Make rulings, not arguments
  • Adapt and improvise
  • Most importantly, Have fun and help others have fun too

Tools to Help You

Final Advice

  • Your first session doesn't have to be perfect
  • You'll learn best by just playing
  • Focus on fun, story and collaboration
  • Be flexible, take notes and ask your players what they enjoyed