Episode 13: Improvising Descriptions: How to Prepare

In this episode, we take a more practical look at what we can learn from three examples of boxed text descriptions In this episode, we look at improvised descriptions and how a little preparation can go a long way to creating great on-the-fly/off-the-cuff descriptions that feel vivid and exciting. We look at 6 key ways to prepare prior to game so that your in-the-moment descriptions feel more natural and organic.

  1. Memorizing descriptions from existing modules.
  2. Drawing inspiration from fiction, film, and tv shows.
  3. Writing your own boxed text descriptions.
  4. Using description generators, tables, and other compiled lists and tools.
  5. Practicing improv through word association and freewriting
  6. Preparing a list of descriptive cues and hooks.

Future episodes will delve into Option 6 in more detail, beginning with a look at how to prepare visual cues and hooks for describing what characters see.