Domino is a generic gaming piece similar to dice or playing cards that can be used in many different games. But one of the most popular uses for a domino set is simply to build amazing patterns and watch them topple, one after the other. These structures are sometimes called “domino art,” and they can be as simple or complex as you want to make them. You can create straight lines, curved lines, grids that form pictures, stacked walls, and even 3D structures like towers and pyramids. And with a little practice, you can create impressive displays that are sure to impress any audience.

Dominoes are a great example of the domino effect, a phenomenon in which one change can cause a chain reaction that shifts other behaviors. For example, when Admiral William McRaven started making his bed every morning, he created a small habit that led to other changes in his life. Likewise, when Jennifer Dukes Lee began cooking healthier meals at home, she naturally started to have other healthy habits as well.

The most basic domino game is played by two players, and all you need to start is a classic 28-piece double-six set. You can purchase larger sets that contain more dominoes, but these are typically used for decorative purposes rather than for gaming. To play the game, each player draws seven tiles from the stock, or boneyard, and places them on-edge in front of themselves. They then begin putting down their dominoes, with each domino touching the end of another domino in their line. When all the dominoes have fallen, whoever has the most dominoes in their line wins.

There are countless ways to play domino, but there are also many rules that govern the game. For instance, some dominoes have numbers on their ends — known as pips — that are used to identify which ones can touch each other. Others are blank or have a different number of spots, such as a six or a three. Some dominoes have colored dots, which can be used to color-code them and differentiate between types.

When you’re playing domino, you have to keep in mind how each domino will affect the next, and try to plan your moves accordingly. This is especially true if you’re working with a large group of dominoes. Larger setups require more planning, because it takes longer for a domino to fall than a smaller one. You can use a domino count sheet to help with the process.

For the most spectacular designs, you need to understand how each domino works. One of the most important concepts is gravity, which pulls each domino toward Earth and causes it to smash into the next. This is why it’s important to test out each section of an elaborate domino arrangement before attempting to actually complete the whole thing. In fact, Hevesh makes several test versions of her largest projects before constructing the final display. She’s even helped set a Guinness World Record for the most dominoes toppled in a circular arrangement: 76,017.