D4 Math Tips
Using d4s for action resolution may sound slow — but it's surprisingly quick once you understand the patterns.
This page shows why adding up d4s is fast and intuitive, especially when using your hands or visual matching.
Fast Math by Matching Pairs
When you roll multiple d4s, many of them naturally form pairs that add up to 5:
- (1 + 4)
- (2 + 3)
- (2 + 2 + 1) also makes 5
▶ Example: You roll: 1, 1, 2, 2, 3, 4, 4
You can match them like this:
$$ (1 + 4) = 5 \\ (1 + 4) = 5 \\ (2 + 3) = 5 \\ \text{Leftover } 2 = 2 $$
Total = $$ 5 + 5 + 5 + 2 = 17 $$
Just count your 5s, then add the remainder!
Why This Works So Well
With a d4, the possible results are: $$ 1,\ 2,\ 3,\ 4 $$ Each has a 25% chance of appearing.
So when rolling 6 or more dice:
- Most results naturally pair into 5s
- Leftover dice are easy to total
- It’s often faster than summing random numbers
Players typically roll 3–7 d4s per action — well within the “quick math” zone.
Speed Tip: Group Visually
Lay your dice out in pairs as you roll:
- Match 1s with 4s and 2s with 3s
- Stack matched pairs or move them aside
- Count “5, 10, 15…” and add leftovers
This becomes second nature after just a few turns.
Optional: Use Matching Dice Colors
It helps to use:
- One color or dice shape for Aspect d4s
- A different color or dice shape for damage dice (e.g., d6 or d8)
This makes it easier to separate pools and total quickly.