Domino (plural dominoes) is a set of rectangular tiles with a square pattern on both sides. Each side has a value, usually an arrangement of spots, that distinguishes it from the other. The most common variant has six pips, but some are blank or have fewer than six. The name derives from the fact that, when one of these tiles is displaced, the remaining ones fall in a predictable sequence, like dominoes falling after one another in a row. A set of dominoes can be used to play games, train mathematical skills, or to create art.
Dominoes have been in use for centuries, and the game has a rich history of popular culture. It’s been a part of many different movies and TV shows, and it’s an important part of the pop-culture landscape. It’s also a fun way to practice physics, as each piece can be pushed, just like a real domino.
Some people build impressive domino creations. These are called domino art, and the pieces can be arranged in straight or curved lines, grids that form pictures when they fall, stacked walls, or 3D structures like towers and pyramids. Most of these pieces are made of wood, but some are also plastic or other materials.
Most domino games involve emptying your hand or blocking an opponent’s play, but there are many other formats for playing. Some games count points, such as bergen and muggins, while others use blocks to form patterns. Others teach number recognition and help kids learn counting. Some are multiplayer, such as Mexican train and trumping.
In the past, political commentators have used the term domino theory to describe a chain reaction or a series of events that lead from one to another. In particular, President Dwight Eisenhower famously cited the idea when explaining why America would aid Ngo Dinh Diem’s anti-communist government in Vietnam. Today, the phrase has broadened to refer to any situation where a small trigger may lead to a larger cascade of events.
Domino’s Pizza has a strong company culture that emphasizes listening to employees and taking action on feedback. This is evident in the Undercover Boss episode where CEO Don Meij visits several locations and talks to employees about their concerns. The company has also emphasized a focus on customer service and is committed to providing an excellent experience for their customers.
If you’re a pantser, that is, you don’t write detailed outlines before you start writing, you may find yourself with scenes that aren’t logically connected to the scene ahead of them. To fix this, try using a tool like Scrivener or a domino chart to check that your scenes connect and make sense. You can also weed out scenes that don’t advance the plot or have an emotional impact on the character. This will make your story flow better and keep readers engaged.