How to Use the Domino Effect in Fiction

Domino is the name of a popular game, but it also refers to a more general idea: a series of small events that can have dramatic and often devastating consequences. This is also called the domino effect, and it’s an important concept to understand if you want to write effective fiction. Whether you’re a pantster or take a more careful approach to plotting, the way you structure scenes can have a big impact on your story’s momentum. Considering how to use the domino effect in your writing will help you keep the action moving smoothly until the climax.

Dominoes are rectangular blocks with a line down the middle that separates each end into two squares. Each end has a number of spots–called pips–which are marked in different colors, depending on the type of domino. Some are blank, while others have one through six spots. The most common set of dominoes has one unique piece for each possible combination of numbers, from 1 through 6.

A domino can be arranged in a straight line or into a curved pattern that makes an artistic design. It can even be stacked in three dimensions to create towers and pyramids. When a domino is tipped over, it causes the next domino to tip over and so on until all the pieces have fallen. Many children like to play with dominoes, and they can be stacked up into elaborate structures.

In addition to being a fun way to pass the time, dominoes are an excellent educational tool for children. Using simple rules, they can learn to count and identify different colors as well as develop hand-eye coordination and problem-solving skills. Dominoes can also be used in science and social studies, with students learning about how things work by observing a simple experiment.

When creating a domino model, it’s important to choose an appropriate base and then arrange the pieces properly. You can start with a ruler, a piece of wood or another sturdy surface. Place the first domino on top of it and then gently push it. Pay attention to how the other dominoes react, and then try it again. Keep practicing until you can get the domino to fall without causing the other pieces to shift.

Domino’s Pizza is an example of a company that uses the domino effect to its advantage. In order to expand its business and stay competitive, the company realized it needed to do more than offer a standard menu of pizza. The company hired a creative director who pushed the boundaries of conventional wisdom. His efforts included renaming the company to “Domino’s Pizza” and designing a cool-looking purpose-built delivery car.

Hevesh is an expert at creating intricate domino designs, and she says that the most important thing for her to consider when creating a new setup is the laws of physics. She points to gravity as a major force that allows her to create a sequence of events that will tumble according to plan.