Domino is a series of events that cascade in a chain-reaction, starting with one event and then building on it. Whether you compose your manuscript off the cuff or take your time with a careful outline, plotting a novel ultimately comes down to one simple question: What happens next? Using the domino effect as a guide, you can develop your story in a way that will keep readers hooked from start to finish.
While many people associate the term domino with a game that involves lining up small rectangular pieces and then knocking them over, the domino effect can be applied to all sorts of things in life. From a business standpoint, it’s an excellent strategy for solving problems and improving efficiency. A domino effect can also help you plan your workday or study schedule, as well as make decisions about what tasks to tackle and when.
Domino, the sexy mutant specializing in luck powers, first appeared in Uncanny X-Men #57, the last issue of writer Paul Jenkins’ run on the book. Able to shift the odds of an event, her ability is triggered by putting herself in situations where she could be harmed. She can also use her abilities to create luck for herself and others.
The individual domino tiles are usually black and white, though colored versions exist. Each has a number or symbol printed on it, and the numbers can be organized into suits. The most popular type of domino set contains 28 tiles and is known as a double-six or double-nine. Larger sets exist, which contain more tiles and increase the number of unique combinations of ends by adding additional pips to each end.
A domino set can be used for a variety of games, both for one player and multi-players. Two of the most common types of games are blocking and scoring. Blocking games require the player to place dominoes in a line or grid, covering up any gaps between them. Then the player can nudge the dominoes with his or her finger to bring them down. Another common strategy is to score points by creating long lines of adjacent dominoes, either vertically or horizontally.
As a name, Domino has kept its authoritative undertones, and is often used as a first name to convey a sense of power and control. It’s also been used by companies and other organizations to impart a sense of expertise.
The word domino itself is derived from the Latin phrase for “frictionless.” In English, it became a noun and later a verb, referring to the process of completing an action without interruption. In French, the word also has a more obscure origin, referring to a long hooded cloak that was worn over a mask at carnival season or at a masquerade ball.
The domino effect can be seen in real-life examples, such as when Domino’s replaced their delivery drivers with a fleet of trucks equipped to provide faster service. This was a bold move that addressed the main complaint from Domino’s customers and resulted in tremendous growth for the company.