The domino effect is a psychological concept that describes the way one behavior or idea can spread from one action to another. It is particularly useful in the context of self-improvement because it can create a cascade of new habits, and often a shift in personal beliefs as well.

The Domino Effect: A New Way to Think About Plot

When a person makes a habit change, it usually starts with a small act. It can be as simple as putting away the dishes in the kitchen, or it could be as ambitious as making her bed each morning. But if she succeeds, she not only begins to believe that maintaining a clean and organized home is a part of her identity, but she also sets off a chain reaction that affects all aspects of her life.

There are several ways to use the domino effect in your writing:

Using the Domino Effect for Character Development

The first step in creating characters is to think about what you want them to believe and do. Then, you can begin to develop their personalities and their motivations for achieving those goals. This may seem like a tedious task, but it’s crucial to building a story that will appeal to readers.

Using the Domino Effect for Narrative Development

The domino effect is an excellent way to visualize plot points in your novel, and it helps you to write compelling narratives that move readers from the beginning to the end. It’s important to remember that a single action can trigger a chain reaction of events, so you’ll need to keep in mind the importance of setting up your story in such a way that each scene builds toward the next.

Using the Domino Effect for Plotting

The process of plotting a novel involves answering the question, “What happens next?” It’s about how your characters respond to the situation they are in and what’s happening to them. This can be done in a variety of ways, but the most common is to use the domino effect.

How to Use the Domino Effect for Writing

When I work with clients on their novels, I use the domino effect to help them understand the importance of a tight outline and how it can save time in the long run by preventing unnecessary repetition. I also explain to them that they can’t expect to have their books published if their story isn’t compelling enough to keep readers turning the pages.

Having a strong outline can also help you avoid getting stuck in the middle of a story, and it will prevent you from losing focus and becoming dissatisfied with your progress. This is especially true when you’re trying to reach a deadline.

It’s not always easy to figure out what to do in your novel, and sometimes it can be frustrating to make changes in your writing because you’re not sure how they will affect the rest of your story. But if you take the time to consider the domino effect, you can avoid making major mistakes and have a more compelling story.