Domino is a small rectangular wood or plastic block, either blank or marked by dots resembling those on dice. A domino has one or more ends and can be used for playing a game with rules similar to those of a game of solitaire, although there are many variations in the games played with these tiles. A group of dominoes, also called a domino set, is often used for a variety of activities, such as games and educational activities. A graphical representation of the pieces of a domino set is known as a domino chart or domino map.
Dominoes are available in a wide range of styles and sizes, from the standard double six set to larger sets that include more than 55 tiles. The dominoes are typically divided into suits, each containing tiles bearing a number from one to five or six to thirteen. A domino is considered a member of the suit it is in, but it can belong to two suits, such as the threes and sevens, simultaneously.
A domino set is an excellent teaching tool to demonstrate how a sequence of events can lead to an outcome that is different from the starting point. The logical progression of the sequence helps students understand how cause and effect work together in order to create an outcome.
In fiction writing, the domino effect can be an effective tool for describing how a character’s actions will impact other characters and the storyline in general. For example, if a hero does something immoral that goes against societal norms, the writer must ensure readers will be able to understand why, or they will not keep liking the hero.
When a writer uses the domino effect in his or her plotting, it is important to have a clear idea of the main action that will occur in each scene. If there are too many details in a scene, it can become confusing and overwhelming for the reader. In addition, the scenes should flow smoothly from one to the next. A smooth flow of scenes will help to build tension, and keep the reader interested in the story.
For example, when Jennifer Dukes Lee started making her bed every morning, it was a small step that led to the creation of other identity-based habits. After a while, she began to believe that she was the type of person who maintained a clean home, and it became easier for her to follow through on other tasks. The domino effect is a powerful tool for creating lasting change.
Whether a writer writes off the cuff or follows a carefully prepared outline, the story must flow smoothly. Using the domino effect as a guide will ensure that the scenes are in order and will lead to a satisfying conclusion for the reader. This process is also useful for writers who do not use outlines and prefer to let the story unfold as they write. Using the domino effect can help these writers weed out scenes that are at the wrong angle or don’t have enough impact on the scene ahead of them.