D&D 5e GM checklist cheat sheet
Before-session and during-session reminders. At-the-table reference for Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition.
D&D 5e DM checklist: what to prep before the session and what to keep in mind during play.
Before the session
- Prep 2-3 encounters (combat, social, or exploration) with a clear hook.
- Set DCs for likely checks (easy 10, medium 15, hard 20).
- Know your monsters: AC, HP, attack bonus, and one signature ability each.
- Have a random encounter or NPC ready for when players go off-script.
During play
- Call for ability checks, not skill checks: let the player argue which skill applies.
- Track concentration for casters (damage = CON save, DC = max(10, half damage taken)).
- Use the 'three clue rule': any important fact should be discoverable at least three ways.
- When in doubt, set DC 15 and keep the game moving.
Common mistakes
- Do not call for rolls when success or failure is certain: only roll when both outcomes are interesting.
- Concentration checks are CON saves, not ability checks: War Caster gives advantage on these.
- Legendary Resistance is per day, not per encounter: track it across the session.