Start with ask mode for the most control over your reactions since smart timing is crucial. Shield and counterspell need manual triggers to avoid wasting spell slots, while cutting words works best when you choose the exact moment. Keep an eye on those bardic inspiration charges, they're precious especially against tougher enemies who love targeting your weaker allies.

For the tougher fights, managing your reaction choices becomes really important since enemies are way more aggressive. They'll coordinate attacks and use nasty spells so saving that counterspell for the perfect moment makes a huge difference. Divine smite hits harder when you wait for crits, and hellish rebuke works great against those pesky archers who think they're safe at range.

Watch your resources carefully because enemies hit harder and camp supplies cost double. Setting reactions to manual might slow combat down a bit but that extra control lets you save your good stuff for when it really matters. Enemies are smart enough to focus fire squishier targets and use terrain against you so timing those defensive reactions right can save your whole party.