Pacing is one of the most critical aspects of running a successful D&D session. Good pacing keeps the game dynamic, engaging, and enjoyable for all players. It ensures that the story progresses smoothly, combat remains exciting, and exploration doesn't become tedious. Without proper pacing, sessions can drag on, causing players to lose interest and become disengaged. 

This guide will delve into how to manage the pacing of combat, exploration, and roleplay, and how to recognize and address signs that your game is dragging. By mastering these techniques, you can keep your sessions moving and maintain a high level of excitement and immersion. 

Don’t worry about using ANY of these techniques if your game is running smoothly. If the players are engaged and having fun, it doesn’t matter how slow the game goes.

Managing the Pacing of Combat

Combat encounters are a critical part of any D&D session, but they can sometimes slow down the game's pace if they are not managed efficiently. Here are some strategies to keep combat fast-paced and engaging

Streamline Initiative
Initiative tracking can often slow down the start of combat, so it's essential to have a streamlined process. 

You can use digital tools or apps that automatically handle initiative order. Tools like D&D Beyond’s combat tracker, Roll20 or a VTT like Foundry can help automate and speed up the process. I’m a big fan of digital tools (obviously) because once you know how to use them, they can do whatever the task, instantly. 

You can try having your players pre-roll their initiatives at the start of the session or before a known combat encounter. This saves time and helps the battle start more smoothly. This one is less than optimal, since it’s been my experience that very rarely do you are the players know that they are going to go into combat. 

Use initiative cards placed in order on the table so everyone can easily see when their turn is coming up, reducing the need to constantly announce the order. 

Really, what this all comes down to, is not allowing the game to stop because someone isn’t paying attention, or ready to begin their round of combat. Typically, in my experience, the biggest time sink is the first round of combat, where the players may tend to hold their actions, or more likely, trying to figure out what they want to do. 

Once combat is running, it tends to run pretty smoothly, since the players are now acting and reacting to what is happening around them.

Simplify Enemy Actions
Simplifying the actions of enemies, especially during minor encounters, can significantly speed up combat. 

For groups of similar enemies, roll their attacks and damage together rather than individually. For example, if five goblins are attacking, roll all their attacks simultaneously and then determine hits and misses. One of the hardest parts of DMing, is keeping track of all the attacks that the monsters might do. 

If you have a group of 5 Goblins and a Hobgoblin Overseer, roll all the goblin attacks, note them down, and then roll the Hobgoblin attack. Now you have all your attacks against the party ready, you can wait for each monster’s turn in combat to make the attack and then roll damage if any. 

Instead of rolling damage for each enemy attack, use average damage values. This keeps the game moving quickly and maintains consistency in enemy effectiveness. Average damage works well if the party is fighting an army. The more monsters they face, the better average damage works, but if the monster ALWAYS does 5 points damage, combat gets boring fast.
For less significant enemies, stick to basic attack options instead of complex abilities or spells. This simplifies their turns and keeps the focus on player actions. Minions will mele attack, or use a ranged attack, whichever is appropriate to the minion and the distance. Leave mixing up your attacks to the Boss.

Encourage Quick Decisions
Encouraging players to make quick decisions during combat can help maintain a brisk pace. 

Gently enforce a time limit for player decisions, especially during combat. Inform players that they have a set amount of time (e.g., 30 seconds) to decide their actions once their turn begins. Setting a timer whenever a player hesitates, is a great way to get them to commit to an attack. They don’t want to be the one that slows things down. 

Encourage players to think about their next move while waiting for their turn. This reduces downtime and keeps the combat flowing. Honestly, I thought this would be obvious, but if you are a new player, it probably isn’t as obvious as it seems. 

Ask players to quickly summarize their actions at the start of their turn. For example, “I’m going to move here and attack this enemy with my sword.” Again, this is how I’ve always played, but some people may not think like this.

Combat Shortcuts
Using shortcuts and streamlined methods can keep combat encounters exciting and fast-paced. 

For common conditions like stunned or poisoned, have simplified rules ready to apply quickly without needing to reference the rulebook repeatedly. If you have a monster that can use poison, in your session prep, copy down the information about how the poison acts on a piece of paper or a card, so you can refer to it easily. 

Introduce environmental hazards that change dynamically during combat, such as falling debris or spreading fires. These hazards add excitement and urgency, requiring players to adapt quickly. This can slow down combat, as the players adapt to the changing environment, but if they are occupied with survival, they will be less focused on how long the round takes.
By implementing these techniques, you can keep combat encounters snappy and engaging, maintaining the overall pace of your D&D sessions and ensuring that players remain focused and excited throughout the game.

Managing the Pacing of Exploration

Exploration is a fundamental part of any campaign, offering players the opportunity to discover new locations, uncover secrets, and immerse themselves in the game world. However, it's essential to manage the pacing of exploration to prevent it from becoming slow or monotonous. Here are strategies to keep exploration engaging and well-paced.

Use Narrative Descriptions
Using concise and vivid narrative descriptions can help maintain the pace during exploration. 

Highlight the most important aspects of the environment and summarize less critical details. For example, describe the towering ancient trees and the mysterious ruins peeking through the foliage, rather than every rock and shrub in the forest. 

When players are exploring less significant areas, provide a brief overview rather than detailed descriptions. For instance, “You pass through a series of similar-looking hallways before arriving at a grand chamber.” 

The worst thing a DM can do is, for example, have the party enter a city, then give them nothing to work with as far as what they should be doing. You don’t need to railroad them, but you can point out several points of interest the party, or members of the party may want to visit. Each of these places would then need a clue or other helpful tidbit that moves the story along.

Incorporate Transition Scenes
Transition scenes help move the story forward without dwelling too long on less exciting parts of the journey. 

Use transition scenes to move between major events or locations. This can be a brief travel montage, a quick recap of uneventful periods, or a short descriptive passage that sets the scene for the next significant event. For example, after a battle, describe the journey to the next location briefly to avoid unnecessary downtime. 

I know that running the trek, with all the associated encounter rolls might be interesting, but more often than not, nothing worthwhile ever happens. So unless you have a reason for role playing the entire journey, just sum it up as the party arrives at their destination, or point where a plot point occurs. 

Use transitions for character interactions and development. This can be a good time for players to discuss their plans, reflect on past events, or engage in light role-playing that doesn’t require detailed DM intervention.

Interactive Elements
Incorporating interactive elements during exploration can keep players engaged and prevent the game from slowing down. 

Introduce puzzles, traps, or other interactive elements that require players to think and act. These can be brief but engaging, adding variety to the exploration phase. For example, a magical barrier that requires solving a riddle to pass through. 

This sounds like it would slow things down to a crawl and it will, but if the players are all engaged, they won’t notice. 

Include encounters with NPCs that provide useful information, side quests, or opportunities for role-playing. These interactions can break up long periods of exploration and add depth to the game world. For instance, a hermit in the woods might offer a cryptic clue about the players’ main quest.

By effectively managing the pacing of exploration with narrative descriptions, transition scenes, streamlined travel, and interactive elements, you can keep your D&D sessions dynamic and engaging. These techniques ensure that players remain interested and invested in their journey, enhancing the overall experience and maintaining the momentum of the game.

Managing the Pacing of Roleplay

Roleplaying is a crucial aspect of D&D that allows players to immerse themselves in their characters and the story. However, it's essential to manage the pacing of roleplay to keep the game engaging and prevent lengthy dialogues from slowing down the session. Here are strategies to maintain a good pace during roleplay.

Summarize Conversations
Long conversations can slow down the game if not managed effectively. Summarizing key points can help keep the pace. 

Focus on summarizing the key points of conversations, especially when they involve lengthy discussions. For example, instead of playing out every word of a negotiation, summarize the main arguments and the outcome: “After a tense negotiation, the merchant agrees to lower the price in exchange for a favor.” 

Highlight the most important parts of the conversation to keep players informed and the story moving. For instance, when discussing strategy, quickly summarize the agreed-upon plan without delving into every detail. 

At the end of significant role-playing scenes, provide a brief recap to ensure everyone is on the same page and ready to move forward. This helps to maintain clarity and momentum. 

Honestly, this is not usually a problem. Getting people to roll play is usually more of a problem, than having them roll play too much. Even so, knowing when to summarize a conversation is a good skill to have behind your screen.

Clear Choices
Presenting clear choices to players can help streamline decision-making and keep the game moving. 

When players are faced with decisions, present their options clearly and concisely. This helps them understand the potential consequences and make decisions faster. For example, “You can either try to sneak past the guards, confront them head-on, or look for another way in.” 

Avoid overwhelming players with too many choices. Offer a few clear and impactful options to streamline decision-making. For instance, when deciding how to approach a mission, give three distinct plans of action instead of an open-ended question. Never give your players more than three choices. That is the optimal number to allow them to choose, without freezing up, due to having too many choices. 

Use guiding questions to help players clarify their thoughts and make decisions quickly. Ask questions like, “What’s your top priority here?” or “How do you want to approach this problem?”. This helps the players figure out what the priority is, so they can pursue it.

Role-Playing Prompts
Role-playing prompts can help keep interactions focused and on track, ensuring that the game maintains a good pace. 

Encourage your players to focus on the most important role-playing interactions that drive the story forward. For example, a crucial conversation with a king or a heartfelt dialogue with a fellow party member about a significant plot point. 

Provide role-playing prompts to keep conversations focused and on track. Questions like, “How do you feel about this situation?” or “What’s your character’s main concern right now?” can guide players to more meaningful and concise interactions. 

Encourage players to define their goals for role-playing scenes in advance. This helps them stay focused on achieving those goals rather than meandering through dialogue. For instance, if a player wants to gather information, remind them to stay focused on asking pertinent questions.

Cut-Scenes for Background Events
Using cut-scenes for background events can help maintain the narrative flow without slowing down the game. 

Use narrative cut-scenes to describe events that don’t require player interaction but are important for the story. This can move the plot forward without slowing down the session. For example, describe a villain’s escape in a dramatic narrative rather than playing out every detail. 

Employ brief cut-scenes to transition between major events or locations. This maintains narrative flow and reduces downtime. For instance, narrate the party’s travel from one town to another, highlighting any notable occurrences or changes in the environment. 

Back in the AD&D days, we didn’t have a name for it, but we still did cut scenes. This was before video games had scenes of any kind. Even then, we understood that some things are better when they happen off camera. Being a good DM is knowing what is better done off camera, and what should be played out.

Example of Streamlined Role-Playing and Decision-Making
Setup (5 minutes): Present the players with a situation requiring a decision, such as how to infiltrate a guarded fortress. Provide clear options: “Your best options are, you can sneak in through the sewer, disguise yourselves and enter through the front gate, or create a distraction and slip in during the chaos.” 

Decision-Making (5-10 minutes): Encourage players to quickly discuss the pros and cons of each option. Use a timer to keep the discussion concise and focused. Summarize the chosen plan and outline the next steps: “You decide to disguise yourselves and enter through the front gate. As you approach the gate, a guard...” 

Role-Playing Interaction (10-15 minutes): Focus on key interactions needed to execute the plan, such as convincing a guard to let them in. Use role-playing prompts to keep dialogue concise and on target. Summarize lengthy conversations to maintain pace: “After a convincing argument, the guard agrees to let you pass, but warns you to be cautious.” 

Transition to Action (5 minutes): Narrate the transition from planning to action, using a brief cut-scene: “Disguised as merchants, you make your way through the gate and into the fortress courtyard.”

By managing the pacing of roleplay through summarized conversations, clear choices, role-playing prompts, and narrative cut-scenes, you can keep your D&D sessions dynamic and engaging. These techniques help ensure that role-playing remains focused and integral to the story while maintaining a good pace throughout the game.

Signs Your Game is Dragging

Not all game session drag and not all interactions that take time, are dragging down your session. Recognizing when your game is slowing down is crucial for maintaining player engagement and ensuring an enjoyable experience. Here are some signs that your game might be dragging and tips on how to speed things up:

Player Disengagement
One of the most obvious signs that your game is dragging is player disengagement. Watch for these indicators. 

Players who are bored may look around the room, check their phones, or engage in side conversations. If you notice players losing interest, it’s a clear sign that the pacing needs adjustment. 

Players may become distracted and less focused on the game. They might miss details or need frequent reminders of what’s happening. 

When players are disengaged, they may become less active in discussions, decision-making, or role-playing. They might give short or non-committal responses, indicating they are not fully invested.

How to Address It:
First off, take every situation individually. These are indicators, not strict rules. Years ago, I was part of a Traveller game every Sunday morning. I was in my 20’s, so I tended to be out late of Saturday nights. So, when I had nothing to do in the game, I more often than not, fell asleep. It wasn’t that I wasn’t engaged, it was that I had had maybe four hours sleep the night before. 

Once you have verified that it’s the game that’s dragging, not an issue going on with the player, you can call on quieter players directly to involve them in the action. Ask their characters for input or decisions to bring them back into the game. 

Try to introduce elements that require player interaction, such as puzzles, combat, or role-playing opportunities that necessitate participation from everyone. If their minds are active, they won’t fall asleep. 

If the current scene is dragging and all else fails, consider wrapping it up quickly and moving on to a more engaging part of the adventure.

Long Periods of Inaction
Long periods where nothing significant happens can cause the game to drag. 

Excessive downtime, such as long travel periods without events or lengthy rest breaks, can slow the pace. 

Situations where players are waiting for something to happen, such as waiting for an NPC to arrive or for an event to trigger, can lead to inactivity and boredom.

How to Address It:
Inaction is the very definition of a dragging game. Avoid inaction at all costs! Introduce minor events or encounters during downtime to keep players engaged. For example, a random encounter during travel or an unexpected NPC interaction during a rest period. 

Use narrative time jumps to skip over less critical periods quickly. Summarize uneventful travel or downtime and move on to the next significant scene. 

Encourage players to engage in character interactions, planning, or other activities during downtime to keep the session lively.

Extended Debates
While discussions and planning are essential, extended debates can slow the game’s pace. 

Long strategy discussions where players go back and forth without making decisions can drag down the pace. 

Players revisiting the same points or arguments without progress can indicate a pacing issue.
Players debating the rules with the DM, will always bog the game down.

How to Address It:
Implement time limits for discussions to encourage quick decision-making. For example, give players five minutes to decide on a plan of action, then actually set a timer, or if you have it, a small hourglass. When time is up, the alarm goes off, or as the sand empties, the players will jump to a decision just to beat the timer. 

Summarize the main points of the discussion and prompt players to make a decision. For instance, “It sounds like we have two main options. Let’s vote and move forward.” 

As the DM, guide the discussion to keep it focused and on track. Offer suggestions or highlight key considerations to help players make decisions more quickly. In the case of a player debating rules, listen to what they say. If it makes sense, go with it. If not, tell them that you are making a ruling and they can talk to you about it after the session. Then make the ruling.

Example of Addressing Dragging Pacing:
If you notice players getting bored or distracted, re-engage them by directly involving their characters in the current scene. Ask them for input or introduce a situation that requires their action. If the party is split, this may not be an option. This is why splitting the party (from the DM point of view) is bad. 

During a long travel segment, introduce a random encounter or interesting event to break up the monotony. For example, “As you travel through the forest, you come across an ancient, overgrown shrine with mysterious carvings.” It doesn’t have to be much, but should give information on the current quest, or introduce the potential for another quest. 

When a strategy discussion goes on too long, set a timer and prompt players to reach a decision. Summarize the options and guide them to a conclusion: “We’ve discussed sneaking in or creating a distraction. Let’s vote and move forward.”

By recognizing signs that your game is dragging, such as player disengagement, long periods of inaction, and extended debates, and implementing strategies to address these issues, you can maintain a good pace and keep your D&D sessions engaging and enjoyable for all players.

How to Speed Things Up

When you notice that your game is slowing down, it’s essential to have strategies in place to speed things up and maintain engagement. Here are some techniques to keep the game moving smoothly.

Quick Resolutions
Resolve minor tasks quickly to keep the game moving. 

For tasks that don’t significantly impact the plot, provide quick summaries instead of playing out every detail. For example, “You search the room and find a few gold coins and a rusty dagger.” 

For simple skill checks, narrate the outcome without extensive back-and-forth. For instance, “Your perception check reveals nothing unusual in the immediate area.”

How to Implement:
Have brief descriptions ready for common actions or outcomes to save time during the game. Think up at least two ways to describe each action, so that you aren’t always stating the same thing every time the action happens. 

For simple tasks, use average rolls or results to keep things moving quickly.

Encourage Player Preparedness
Encouraging players to be prepared can significantly speed up the game. 

Ask players to update their character sheets, including leveling up, choosing new spells, and noting any new abilities between now and the start of the next session. This avoids delays during gameplay. 

Ensure players have their equipment and inventory lists updated. This includes tracking ammunition, potions, and other consumables.

How to Implement:
Send reminders before the session for players to prepare their characters. 

Offer quick reference sheets for abilities, spells, and common rules to reduce lookup time. 

One DM I played with, set up a Discord Server for all the players to interact on between sessions. This also us to ask questions if needed and also allowed her to remind us of relevant things for the next session. Since it’s free to start a Discord Server, this can be used by anyone.

Use Time Limits
Setting time limits for decisions and actions can help maintain a brisk pace. 

Enforce a time limit for player turns in combat, such as 30 seconds to decide on an action. This keeps combat fast-paced and engaging. 

Set a time limit for group discussions and decision-making, especially during strategic planning. For example, allow five minutes for the group to decide on a course of action.

How to Implement:
Use a visible timer or stopwatch to keep track of time limits. Your phone has a timer. 

Gently remind players of the time limit as it approaches to encourage quick decisions.

Monitor and Adjust
Regularly check the pacing of your game and be ready to adjust as needed. 

Periodically ask players how they feel about the pacing and whether they think the game is moving too slowly or too quickly. 

Be flexible and adjust the pacing based on player feedback and engagement levels. If a scene is dragging, find a way to wrap it up quickly and move on.

How to Implement:
Include a brief feedback session at the end of each game to discuss what worked well and what could be improved. 

Be willing to adapt your plans to keep the game engaging, even if it means skipping or shortening less critical parts of the adventure.

Example of Speeding Things Up:
If the party is investigating a series of rooms in a dungeon, summarize the findings in each room rather than playing out every search: “The next three rooms contain old furniture and scattered debris, with nothing of value.” This assumes there is nothing there to find, and is a great way to get the party to the ramp/stair/elevator going to the next level. 

Remind players at the start of the session to have their spells and abilities ready. Have the players create a cheat sheet for commonly used spells and abilities for their character, to speed up decision-making. 

During a combat encounter, use a timer to ensure each player’s turn is swift: “You have 30 seconds to decide your action. Go!” 

After an hour of play, check in with the group: “How is everyone feeling about the pace? Is there anything we should speed up or slow down?” You won’t need to do this more than a few sessions before you get a feel for what the right pace for this group is. Later, if things start to feel slow, ask again.

By implementing quick resolutions, encouraging player preparedness, using time limits, and regularly monitoring and adjusting the pacing, you can keep your D&D sessions dynamic and engaging. These strategies help ensure that gameplay flows smoothly and that players remain focused and excited throughout the adventure. 

Maintaining a good pace in your sessions is crucial for keeping players engaged and ensuring that the game remains dynamic and enjoyable. By effectively managing the pacing of combat, exploration, and roleplay, and recognizing and addressing signs that your game is dragging, you can create a more immersive and thrilling experience for your players. Implementing strategies like quick resolutions, encouraging player preparedness, using time limits, and regularly monitoring and adjusting the pacing will help keep the game moving smoothly. 

Remember, the goal is to balance detail with playability, ensuring that every session is filled with memorable moments and exciting encounters. By applying the techniques outlined in this guide, you can master the art of pacing and create unforgettable adventures that captivate your players and keep them coming back for more. So, embrace these strategies, stay flexible, and most importantly, have fun crafting and running your D&D campaigns. Your players will thank you for it, and your game will be all the better for it. 

What do you think? Let me know in the comments, anything I missed, or if you think anything here won't work for you.