Dominoes are a popular game that can be used to create a variety of patterns. They are stacked on end in long lines, and when the first domino is tipped over, it causes all the rest of the line to fall. This can produce intricate designs, and it also demonstrates the power of simple cause-and-effect actions. Dominoes are often referred to as a “catalyst for change,” because they can inspire people to action and change their lives in small but significant ways.

A domino is a tile with pips that are inlaid or painted on its surface. Most dominoes are made of bone or silver lip ocean pearl oyster shell (mother-of-pearl), but they can also be made from other materials such as ebony and ivory, or even stone (e.g., marble, granite or soapstone). Domino sets are available in different shapes and sizes. Most are rectangular, with a thickness of one half an inch, but some are circular or square, and others have more irregular shapes. In some sets, the pips are inlaid or painted in multiple colors.

Most domino games are played between two players. The first player begins by drawing tiles from the stock, which is usually placed on the table in front of both players and consists of a double-six set. Each subsequent player draws tiles from the stock until all have a complete hand. After all the tiles have been drawn, the winner is determined by counting the number of pips on the ends of the line of play.

Some domino games require players to make a certain number of moves or to make a particular sum, such as a multiple of 5. In these cases, the player is given a certain amount of points for each completed move. Depending on the rules of the game, the points may be added up at the end of the hand or after each completed play.

When a domino is placed in a line of play, the open end must match the pips on the other tiles. This configuration is referred to as the line of play and is important for most domino games. The lines of play may be lengthwise or crosswise, but doubles must be played on both ends unless they are spinners.

Hevesh is a master at designing and constructing large domino displays. She works from a blueprint, but she also makes test versions of each section of the display before she puts it together. Then she films the tests in slow motion to get a close-up view of how each piece functions. Her testing allows her to correct each section if it isn’t working properly.

Like dominoes, stories need scenes that advance the story and reach a key plot point or scene. But these scenes must be well-paced, so they don’t feel overly long or short. They must also be spaced correctly, so that the resulting cascade feels right for the reader. The right pace and timing are crucial, because the speed of the incoming dominoes determines how quickly the next sequence starts.