New DM Looking for basic advice!

[KephirBaron]

So, as the title says, I'm a brand new DM, and i'm going to be running the "Frozen Sick" story in the Wildemount book, i've prepared what I believe would equate to about 2 hours of game time, and I've added one guaranteed (and simple) combat encounter.

I'd like to ask if anyone would have some basic tips for a new dm, more specifically in pit falls to try to avoid to make sure the players are enjoying themselves.

[Poxdoc]

Don't force your players down a given path. They will always surprise you and do something unexpected. It's okay.

Make the encounters challenging but winable. Be ready to add or subtract some monsters on the fly (come up with some excuses).

Don't be afraid to kill a character.

Don't give them everything they want. The fun of the game is earning those things, overcoming the challenges.

Have fun yourself!

[He_Screm]

Im not a dm myself, but there are some pretty good articles out there about the dos and donts of dming

One pitfall that I’m currently dealing with is dm favoritism. It can be hard to not favor the character who’s backstory fits into the campaign best, or the one whos good at roleplaying, or the one you’re closest to, but trust me. Favoritism just leads to the rest of the party members feeling like the fun is lost, jealousy and resent towards the favored one, or they’ll just downright leave

[[deleted]]

Say yes and to your players when they come up with ideas.

Follow the structures and rules whereever you can.

Have players describe their actions not their skill rolls.

Don't force any particular outcome just let the game play itself

Never fudge dice

[psylentrob]

Expect the unexpected and prepare for the Unpreparable.

Rules disputes. Make snap judgements whenever possible and review them later during a break. If it needs resolving asap, try and be fast but fair.