I'm probably going to get loads of crap for this, but I have to ask. Is there any other format you can use to assimilate the info in the D&D core books?
To explain: I have ADHD. I love Dungeons & Dragons. I can sit for a half hour reading what is essentially a text book on how to play a game I love, but when you ask me what I've just read I have no idea. I can't retain the information in that format. Any help?
If you're like me, don't bother with rote memorization. Just play, theorycraft, and retain by doing. Once you have an understanding of the underlying principles, then you can fake the rest because your intuitions will align with the truths that support the game's design.
First, if anyone gives you any crap, the problem is their’s, not with you.
As far as advice, I’m not going to pretend like I’m an expert. The only thing I can think is, maybe you just focus on the parts that really matter to you and take notes (or use whatever strategies you use in general to help you retain information). As a player, maybe just read over your race, class and subclass. Write down the things you can can do as sort of a quick reference you can refer to when you’re playing.
And I’d say make sure to explain your situation to your DM, and if you feel comfortable the other players. Just so they can understand why you may need little reminders on what you can do.
Not sure if there are any particular formats or learning styles that work best for you, but I'd recommend checking out some of the D&D educational videos on YouTube. Having something that is both visual and audio (as well as slightly more interactive) might help you retain the information.
As one recommendation, I would look at Handbook Helper, which are several videos that run ~5 minutes each and cover a lot of the main concepts from the core books (such as the Player's Handbook). I personally like these videos, since they are fairly straightforward and informational will still entertaining enough to keep one's attention.
I'm sure other posters will offer up some other suggestions and examples as well, but it's a potential alternative if you're having a hard time retaining what you read from the book.
FWIW few people really sit down and read the PHB, DMG etc cover to cover, including dungeon masters. I'd hazard even most players rarely consult the books, so I wouldn't hold not spending time with the books as holding you back from being able to play the game. If you got a friendly group, you should be able to learn via the best way possible diving right in. Beyond that, how to videos are one thing, but you might benefit more from watching the game in practice and watch or listen to some streams. This should also give you a sense of the various player and DM styles out there and some sense of what sort of feeling you're looking for if you're still looking for a group.
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Jander Sunstar is the thinking person's Drizzt, fight me.
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I'm probably going to get loads of crap for this, but I have to ask. Is there any other format you can use to assimilate the info in the D&D core books?
To explain: I have ADHD. I love Dungeons & Dragons. I can sit for a half hour reading what is essentially a text book on how to play a game I love, but when you ask me what I've just read I have no idea. I can't retain the information in that format. Any help?
You could try videos. There's a bunch to be found if you just google "learn to play D&D" or something similar. https://www.wasd20.net/resources/beginners-guide-to-dd-5th-edition/ seems like a good start.
Want to start playing but don't have anyone to play with? You can try these options: [link].
If you're like me, don't bother with rote memorization. Just play, theorycraft, and retain by doing. Once you have an understanding of the underlying principles, then you can fake the rest because your intuitions will align with the truths that support the game's design.
First, if anyone gives you any crap, the problem is their’s, not with you.
As far as advice, I’m not going to pretend like I’m an expert. The only thing I can think is, maybe you just focus on the parts that really matter to you and take notes (or use whatever strategies you use in general to help you retain information). As a player, maybe just read over your race, class and subclass. Write down the things you can can do as sort of a quick reference you can refer to when you’re playing.
And I’d say make sure to explain your situation to your DM, and if you feel comfortable the other players. Just so they can understand why you may need little reminders on what you can do.
Not sure if there are any particular formats or learning styles that work best for you, but I'd recommend checking out some of the D&D educational videos on YouTube. Having something that is both visual and audio (as well as slightly more interactive) might help you retain the information.
As one recommendation, I would look at Handbook Helper, which are several videos that run ~5 minutes each and cover a lot of the main concepts from the core books (such as the Player's Handbook). I personally like these videos, since they are fairly straightforward and informational will still entertaining enough to keep one's attention.
I'm sure other posters will offer up some other suggestions and examples as well, but it's a potential alternative if you're having a hard time retaining what you read from the book.
FWIW few people really sit down and read the PHB, DMG etc cover to cover, including dungeon masters. I'd hazard even most players rarely consult the books, so I wouldn't hold not spending time with the books as holding you back from being able to play the game. If you got a friendly group, you should be able to learn via the best way possible diving right in. Beyond that, how to videos are one thing, but you might benefit more from watching the game in practice and watch or listen to some streams. This should also give you a sense of the various player and DM styles out there and some sense of what sort of feeling you're looking for if you're still looking for a group.
Jander Sunstar is the thinking person's Drizzt, fight me.