How to Give Out XP in Dungeons and Dragons

Consult the XP chart in Chapter 7 of the "Dungeon Master's Guide." Each monster level is assigned a certain number of XP. You can find the monster level in the "Monster Manual" or in the adventure module, if you're using one.

Add up the XP values of all the monsters in the encounter. If the encounter involves puzzles or skill challenges, count them as a monster of the same level. For example, a first-level skill challenge with a complexity of two counts as two standard, first-level monsters. A very difficult puzzle counts as a solo monster.

Adjust the XP depending on the pace of your gaming group. For example, if you don't play often and want to gain levels faster, double the XP. If you want the campaign to last longer, halve the XP.

Divide the XP by the number of player characters in the encounter. For example, if there are four player characters in an encounter worth 800 XP, they each gain 200 XP.

Determine the best time to give out XP. Depending on your group dynamics, it might be better to calculate XP after each encounter, or leave the XP for all encounters until the end of the session.

Give out bonus XP when appropriate. For example, you might give a few hundred bonus XP when the players complete a major quest, or give an extra 50 or 100 XP per session to a player who role-played especially well or did something cool to solve a challenge.