A narrow notch, groove or opening, such as a keyway in machinery or the slit for a coin in a vending machine. Also: a position in a group, series or sequence.

Slots are universal casino favourites for a reason: they’re easy, don’t require any strategy and can deliver some of the biggest, lifestyle-changing jackpots in the business. However, it’s important to understand how slots work before you start playing, from the basics to various strategies.

Paylines: Generally running from left to right across the reels, paylines can range in number from one to more than 50. Some have fixed lines, while others allow you to choose your own. Bonuses: These can steer you away from regular spins and unlock special rounds or rewards, like money, extra prizes and free spins.

Progressive: These machines collect coins and increase the jackpot as more people play them. They’re popular for their increased chances of winning, but can be erratic.

Pick a machine that appeals to you. Whether you prefer a simpler machine with a single payout line or flashy ones that feature different game elements, the most effective strategy is to enjoy the game. But beware of chasing a machine that’s ‘due’ to pay out; all slot results are random and controlled by the random number generator, not by luck or experience.