First thing is, you will need the following spells to make sets: any zap type spell (prefferably a five way zap), paralyze, remove paralysis and blind. Try to put the monster in the set area by using paralyze. If you miss your mark, move yourself over next to where it should be so that the monster will be lead to the right spot. If the monster is attacking someone other than you, zap it a couple times to get its attention. Put it in place and paralyze then blind in that order. Once you have a monster in a set cast blind on it to keep it there longer. Common set types look like this:
Inferno: X
XXX
X
BS/assault: XXX
X
W
Polearm(checkerboard): X X X X X
X X X X
X X X X
Polearm(diamond): X
X X
X F X
X X
X
After you have it blinded/paralyzed, move on to the next creature until the set is complete. Try to unparalyze then paralyze the monster again after you blind it, and make sure the blind is still there. You will have to constantly blind, para and unpara the monsters in order to keep them in place along with keeping the other monsters from killing the poet or anyone else.
The mage is the one in control of the monsters, which is the hardest part! You need to be able to cast fast and think on your feet. When you practice this, you will find that it is easier to read about it than actually do it. Goodluck and I hope that this post helps you better understand the art of making sets!