Some advice from a publisher / competitor / fan of the competition

[frank gori]

It applies to those still in and those that have been eliminated Don't be that contestant

[Jarrett Sigler]

Thank you Frank. Wise words. :-)

[Feros]

But...but...

...what if I WANT to make an item with a simple skill bonus and publicly defend my entry whenever and wherever I feel like? At my table, I as GM am in charge and I can do what I want the way I want to! Players who disagree with me—or have "suggestions"—are told to walk the line!

This seems like the feeble ramblings from one of the other so-called contestants who would deign compete with my brilliance! Make enemies of them? As if I would care as to their insignificant opinions anyway! :p

{/satirical retort}

PS: Great article, Frank! Right on the money! :D

[Thomas LeBlanc]

I have problems with number 3. I usually don't realizing I am doing it because I have the empathy of potato. Well, maybe not, as a potato will grow on you. I do appreciate when people point out I am being that guy.

[Jeffrey Swank]

Nice sentiment for everyone to keep in mind. Thanks Frank. @Thomas, I have always appreciated your machine-like feedback. You may perceive that as lack of empathy, but you cull it with a great sense of tact.

[Crystal Malarsky]

Very nice article, Frank. Thank you for sharing it with us.

[william collins]

Good advice, thank you! I must admit, I've had to grow thicker skin* over the course of this competition—but I realize this is a good thing! Feedback so far has usually been helpful, rarely been sugar-coated, and occasionally (especially in the current round ;) been brutally honest. I hope to learn from this experience.

*my natural armor bonus is now at least +2

[John Leclaire]

Thanks for this Frank!

[Donald Robinson]

Great article, Frank! Thanks for that!

[frank gori]

I'm writing up a couple more, one on encounter advice and one on how to be a useful "pit crew" member.