Running encounters

Run encounters like any other part of the game. Follow the core loop. Frame the action with the encounter about to start, or just starting, or already underway. Describe the environment and portray your characters. Make a soft GM move, ask what the PCs do, and resolve their actions. Repeat until the encounter resolves itself or becomes a new situation.

As you run the encounter, elaborate and riff on what you've already established. You'll probably do this naturally as the players ask questions and you clarify the situation, or in order to resolve PC actions.

Build the NPCs into actual characters, with names, core concepts, memorable traits, impressions, and so forth. If the encounter is with a group, embellish specific individuals as they come into focus. If you're stumped for details, ask the PCs questions and build on the answers.

If you've established the instinct, tags, and moves of an NPC, use them to inform how you portray them and run the scene.

Keep the encounter's purpose and stakes in mind. Zoom to an appropriate level of detail, and don't be afraid to wrap a scene up when its purpose has been fulfilled. For example, if you add an encounter with the intent of just adding a little color, and the PCs react as if it's some sort of pivotal scene, step out of character and address the players. "Folks, no, this is just a tinker on the road and not some sort of threat. Let's move on." But at the same time, be open to the possibility that this encounter is more important or meaningful than you planned. Maybe that tinker has some key information to share after all!