Lazy DM Eight-Step Method That Cuts Prep Time to Minutes

Mike Shea’s Eight Steps of the Lazy DM is a focused session-prep system used by tabletop groups to streamline planning and keep games dynamic. The method walks a DM through eight concrete tasks that prioritize player-facing material and leave out unnecessary detail, making it easier to run satisfying sessions without hours of work.

The framework begins with a character review to identify motivations and mechanical needs, then moves to creating a strong start that hooks players immediately. From there it outlines potential scenes you expect players might explore, and defines secrets and clues that will seed discovery and drive player investigation. The method emphasizes developing a few fantastic locations rather than mapping every corridor, and outlining important NPCs with clear goals and distinctive traits so interactions stay memorable. Next, pick relevant monsters that support the scenes and challenge the party appropriately. Finally, prepare treasures and rewards that matter to the group—items, story beats, or roleplaying payoffs that tie back to the characters.

Designed to be modular, the eight steps work whether you are running a published adventure or a homebrew world. Shea maintains a Lazy GM Resource Document and linked tools that help translate the steps into encounter stats, treasure tables, and quick NPC write-ups. That practical scaffolding is why many DMs report session prep taking under 30 minutes when they focus on the eight essentials instead of exhaustive maps and scripting every line of dialogue.

For busy GMs, the approach offers tangible benefits: reduced stress before game night, faster recovery when players stray off-script, and more time to focus on improvisation at the table. Start by time-boxing your prep—set a 30-minute timer and move through each step to build a playable session. Concentrate detail on the opening scene and the few locations players are most likely to visit, and keep secrets and clues flexible so you can adapt as players make unexpected choices.

The Eight Steps of the Lazy DM gives you a repeatable, low-friction routine that respects both your time and the players’ agency. If you want to adopt the method, review the eight steps and the supplemental resource documents and tools at slyflourish.com to tailor the workflow to your campaign and table.