guinluvsc's page

Just a note to add that I do to prep. Not only do I highlight, but I color code extensively. Treasures or important items the group needs to have go in blue. Yellow is knowledge checks or other rolls that have specific listings. I use green for encounters (when stat blocks aren't always right there). Also as a side note from the highlighting, if I'm choosing not to use my iPad and combat manager to run a game, I have Bestiary monster stats on index cards or create a word doc and have all the stats on there for easy reference. Usually I do index cards though, so if I come across them later in another scenario/game I can reuse it. If there's important information that only I need to know, like keeping track of something for points or other special information pertinent to just me, I highlight it in pink. I end up with most of the scenario highlighted, but it's really helpful when a player asks a question and I can quickly flip back looking for "giant chunks of green" or something like that!

Also, if there's a lot of treasure or items for the party (I use this more for Adventure Paths or home campaigns) I also write up what they get on an index card. If it's something they have to search for or meet a dc first, then I just quickly add it on if they find it. Sometimes, if I'm feeling really organizey I will even number my treasure cards and put the corresponding number by the encounter/area they get it.

It's not a specific outline on how I prepare, but these couple things help me the most and I find I'm able to run a game more smoothly and quicker when I take the time to go through with a highlighter and index cards!