You can always look it up afterward.

I still struggle with this from time to time because I’m somewhat obsessive compulsive when it comes to rules. Sometimes I even appoint one of my players to be “Keeper of the Rules.” The best advice I’ve ever heard on the subject is just make a ruling and look the specific rule up after the game.

Disclaimer: Statements expressed in this article are strictly my opinion. If you disagree or have a different opinion, that’s okay. I’m not an expert on everything. I’m not always right. I’m just writing from my experience as I know it. Your mileage may vary.


I have heard some YouTube Dungeon Masters don’t let their players bring the rulebooks to the table at all. Why does everyone make life hard on the spellcasters that way? Personally, I want my players to know the rules that most apply to their characters. No, I don’t want my players nose down in the rules the whole time, but there’s a balance to be struck there.


If something comes up in game while you’re Game Master, it’s just better not to bog the game down by digging in the rulebook to try to figure it out. Just make the best decision you can and look it up/figure it out after the session. I know there are a lot of “Rules As Written” guys out there who will tell you otherwise.
As always, do what works best for you and your table. What works best for me might not work for you and vice versa. Based on my experience, everyone is much happier and the game progresses most smoothly if I just drop a decision and go. Happy gaming.

Thank you for being here today with me. I appreciate you. Please embrace the things that bring you the most joy.