Dominoes are a fun way to play games. It is mesmerizing to see a line of dominoes fall one after another. However, a little movement can ruin the entire chain. This is similar to how some learning challenges impact students.
The first domino of any sequence is crucial. The other pieces must follow logically and in order. It is important to understand this and apply it to learning. If a student starts to compensate for a weakness in math or reading, they will not fully develop the needed skills. This compensation could lead to a gap in their abilities and impact their future. The gap created by compensating for a weakness can be like the first domino that falls in a chain reaction – it is impossible to stop the process once it gets going.
Similarly, it is critical to understand the power of momentum in business. A business that has built a strong foundation can withstand change. However, many businesses try to tackle too much at once and end up falling flat on their face. The solution is to treat your organization as a system of interconnected dominoes. Changes in one area have a direct impact on the other parts of your company.
As a storyteller, you can take the same approach to your writing. When you are building your storyline, think of the plot as a series of dominoes. Each scene in your story should build on the previous one to create a logical and exciting chain reaction that leads to the big finish.
For example, your first scene might introduce the hero in a setting and establish their personality. The second scene might introduce the conflict that they will need to overcome. The third scene might show them defeating their opponent. Then the fourth scene might reveal a secret that will have them rethinking their strategy.
Whether you are working on a quick, off-the-cuff draft or taking your time with an outline, using the domino effect in your plotting can help you craft a more compelling narrative for your reader. Keeping this concept in mind will allow you to avoid the common pitfalls of writing that could derail your story.