Well, Tumblrbot, to answer your question and keep with my theme here, I’m sure any GM/DM/ST would enjoy some simple assistance from their players during setup and gameplay; especially if the DM im question isn’t exactly ‘feeling it’. I give my players tips on how to do this, though if any of them actually did this the world probably explode.
These are the things players can should do in regards to their game:
Write Everything in Pencil: Since the numbers and names that summarize your character’s abilities will change over the course of your character’s career, and even during specific adventures or rounds, you want to be able to mark the changes on your character sheet.
Use Page Notations: Inevitably, you’ll have to flip through a rulebook at some point, perhaps to look up exactly how a feat, spell, or special ability functions. You can save time by writing down page and book references on your character sheet for any complex or unusual feature.
Plan Your Combat Actions: When it’s not your turn in combat, you should be thinking about what you’re going to do when it is your turn. If possible, also have a backup plan in case things change suddenly before your turn (new foes enter the battle, the character you had planned to attack goes down, or the like).
Keep Track of Timed Effects: If you employ such a spell or ability, it’s your responsibility to keep track of the duration (the DM has plenty of other things to worry about). One good technique is to use a die to keep track of the time—either count up for the total duration or count down for time remaining; at the start of your turn each round, turn the die to the next number.
Rely on DM Arbitration: Playing the game is more important than looking up rules. Good Dungeon Masters don’t like taking time away from the game to page through rulebooks, and so they often provide instant rulings on debated topics. Go along with the DM’s arbitration, and then after the game or during a break you can look up the official rule; this information will be useful the next time that rule comes up.
Have All Pertinent Statistics on Hand: If your character has a familiar, animal companion, mount, cohort, or similar ally, make sure you have the proper statistics handy.
Avoid Distractions: D&D games often take place in areas surrounded by potential distractions: TVs, video games, books, and the like. Since you’re spending time with your friends, another temptation is to chat and joke at the expense of the game. While some of this sort of activity is fun, and you play D&D to have fun, don’t let the entire session pass in idle banter or witty repartee—especially if some players are not partaking in it. In general, keep your attention focused on the game. Your fellow players might think you rude if you leave the table to surf the Internet or play video games, or if you distract other players with side conversations.
Help Your DM: The DM does a lot of work. If you clear off the table, get the pencils out, and otherwise prepare the playing space, he or she will appreciate it.
