The word slot is derived from the Latin for “narrow opening into which something can be fitted.” The first recorded use was in 1888 (slot machine). In computer technology, a slot or socket refers to a physical location on a motherboard where a processor can be inserted. A slot can also refer to a specific type of connector used on various devices such as cameras and printers.

Using the probability chatter above, you can calculate the number of possible combinations that appear on each reel of a slot machine. You can also use the same method to determine a slot’s edge—how much the casino expects to win on average over time for a given bet size. This figure is not as important as the POP and RTP, which tell you how often the slot pays out and how much it’s above or below the house edge, respectively.

If you’re playing a traditional machine, the pay table will be printed on or near the top and bottom of the display area, while video slots typically place theirs within a help menu. It will list each regular symbol in the game, along with how many matching symbols you need to land to trigger a payout. If a slot has additional features, such as multiple paylines, they’ll be listed as well. In addition, most slots have a clear explanation of how the paylines work and what they mean for your chances of winning.