Whether you’re playing at a land-based casino or online, slots are a great way to pass the time. If you’re playing the right slot, though, they can also be a fun and exciting way to win money.

1. Choose the right slot games

Many people don’t realize that not all slot machines are the same. Some have a higher RTP (return to player) rate than others, while some offer more features or better payouts. You can find out the RTP of a particular slot game by checking state gaming reports.

2. Play the slots that you like

If you enjoy a certain slot game, you’ll be more likely to stick with it and continue playing. However, if you’re playing the same slot machine for a long time and aren’t seeing much success, it may be time to switch up your game.

3. Avoid chasing the jackpot

The excitement of winning big on a slot can be overwhelming and can lead some players to go overboard. This is especially true if the jackpots are progressive. A progressive jackpot is a pool of money that’s grown by a percentage of each bet.

This is a great way to increase your bankroll, but it’s also very risky. If you’re not aware of your bankroll, or if you have no idea what you’re doing, you could lose all your money in the blink of an eye.

4. The random number generator isn’t all bad

Most modern slot machines use a random number generator to determine the sequence of symbols that stop on each reel. This makes each spin unique and gives you an independent experience, unaffected by any previous ones. This is why you don’t see any patterns in your results and no two spins are exactly the same.

5. Take breaks from the slot machine

One of the most important things you can do when playing slots is to take regular breaks. This can be as simple as switching up the games or taking a walk away from the slot machine for an hour or so.

6. Be patient and keep note of the progressive jackpots

If you’re looking for the biggest possible payout on a slot machine, you’ll want to take your time and observe how long it takes for that progressive to hit its max. You can do this by noting the size of the progressive jackpot every time you pass by a machine.

7. Pay attention to the pay table

The pay table on a slot machine will tell you the maximum payout for each symbol, as well as any caps that a casino might have on a jackpot amount. It will also include details about any special symbols, such as a wild symbol or bonus symbols.

8. Watch for the progressive label on the machine

Sometimes a slot machine will have a progressive jackpot that says, “must award by $XXX.” This is a great way to save yourself a lot of time. This isn’t always the case, though, so be sure to check before you insert any coins into the machine.