The slot is the narrow opening in a machine where coins are dropped or deposited. It’s also a term used in computer science to refer to the position in a file or disk where data is stored. If someone is slotted into a schedule or program, it means they will be included in an event. He was able to fit the interview into his busy schedule because his boss had saved him a slot at 2pm.
The pay tables for slot games are usually either printed on the machines or located on a separate slide (in the case of online slots). They provide information on how the game works, including what symbols match to form winning combinations and any bonus features. They can also give a good idea of what to expect from different denominations (for example, quarter slots tend to have better payouts than penny slots) and how much you could potentially win on a spin.
One of the most common mistakes people make when playing slot is getting greedy or betting more than they can afford to lose. This can quickly turn what should be a fun and relaxing experience into a stressful or even disastrous one. To avoid this, decide in advance how much you’re willing to spend and stick to that amount — no more, no less. Also, remember that each spin is an independent event and that if you leave a machine and see someone else hit a jackpot, don’t fret: There’s no such thing as a machine being due for a jackpot.