It really depends on your setup and style. Generally the overall functions will be the same, but how you accomplish it will be different:
I use a Microsoft Surface with OneNote up - on which I have an initiative tracker which I fill out as necessary, and also tracks the ACs and HPs of the monsters. It's also useful for looking things up, taking notes, etc.
I have dice. How many depends on the expected size of encounters and what level we're on. If I'm expecting lots of monsters or monsters with multiattack, then I'll have several sets. As the level increases, I find I need more dice to resolve attacks, so I get more.
I have cards for monsters with their stats on. All the cards I need for the monsters I expect the party to encounter are organised there with their associated minis.
The book or device I'm running the adventure out of.
I normally use DM screens with cheat sheets on.
So yeah, I have to be pretty organised to fit it all in, but it works and everything has a function.
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If you're not willing or able to to discuss in good faith, then don't be surprised if I don't respond, there are better things in life for me to do than humour you. This signature is that response.
A list of names so when the players chat up guard No. 3 or street urchin No. 6, you don’t have to think of one in the spot. It can help to have a couple place names in there, too. A few taverns, boats, horses, streets, etc.
truthfully if you are asking then there is nothing you need behind your DM screen.
After you DM for awhile you will find things you want to have, at that time you add them.
Personally have not used a DM screen in a long time.
Agreed, the OP did state they are a new DM, and for many new DM's the screen is a huge help if for nothing else than being a place to hide when your players are looking to you for answers you don't have (yet) or to give the illusion you're better prepared than you feel. I love my screen and still use it, but I don't need it like I once did.
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CENSORSHIP IS THE TOOL OF COWARDS and WANNA BE TYRANTS.
What do I need behind my DM screen? I'm a new DM and I hope you can give me tips!
For me, I'll usually have the following behind my screen:
Find my D&D Beyond articles here
It really depends on your setup and style. Generally the overall functions will be the same, but how you accomplish it will be different:
So yeah, I have to be pretty organised to fit it all in, but it works and everything has a function.
If you're not willing or able to to discuss in good faith, then don't be surprised if I don't respond, there are better things in life for me to do than humour you. This signature is that response.
thx a lot
ty all
A prepared and open mind with good working knowledge of the rules, and the ability to make a decision.
CENSORSHIP IS THE TOOL OF COWARDS and WANNA BE TYRANTS.
A list of names so when the players chat up guard No. 3 or street urchin No. 6, you don’t have to think of one in the spot. It can help to have a couple place names in there, too. A few taverns, boats, horses, streets, etc.
truthfully if you are asking then there is nothing you need behind your DM screen.
After you DM for awhile you will find things you want to have, at that time you add them.
Personally have not used a DM screen in a long time.
Agreed, the OP did state they are a new DM, and for many new DM's the screen is a huge help if for nothing else than being a place to hide when your players are looking to you for answers you don't have (yet) or to give the illusion you're better prepared than you feel. I love my screen and still use it, but I don't need it like I once did.
CENSORSHIP IS THE TOOL OF COWARDS and WANNA BE TYRANTS.
What do you use as hangers on your screen to indicate Initiative Order? And where can you find useful 'cheat sheets'?
Just folded pieces of paper that hang over the top of the screen. And I'll pull cheat sheets from the books
Find my D&D Beyond articles here
Here are a couple videos on the topic if they help.
Mat Mercer
https://youtu.be/YRMVTmbe-Is?si=CfxkcN5YSclKMT2k
Ginny Di
https://youtu.be/ESWBLljc1tU?si=1QILYW7EECffxaB4
Bare minimum, you need
Notes on things that come up alot.
Notes on the session
Quick run down on places, people, and things that are part of your campaign.
Minies you plan on potential using
Music if you are allowed to use it.
Dice
Blank or scratch paper for notes.