When you play slot, you make bets by pushing a button or pulling a lever. The reels then spin and stop in a random combination, which determines whether you win or lose. Each possible combination has a set payout value, which is displayed on the machine’s pay table. Typically, the higher the stake, the bigger the potential prize.
You can also use the HELP or INFO buttons to get more information about a particular slot game’s symbols, payouts and bonus games. This is particularly useful when playing online, where machines may have dozens of different combinations and pay out jackpots in several ways.
Slot machines are usually grouped together by denomination, style and brand name. They may have a glass sign above them that tells you what type of machine it is, how many pay lines it has and other helpful details. Look for one with a HELP or INFO button and read it before you sit down. This will help you avoid the embarrassment of sitting down at a machine that pays out nothing more than what you paid to play it.
It’s important to decide how much time and money you’re willing to spend on slots before you start spinning the reels. If you get so engrossed in the excitement of the game that you forget your budget, it’s easy to lose control and chase the next big payout. It’s best to play a few machines at a time and stay within your bankroll.