When playing a slot machine, you have to be mindful of the cost per spin. The more paylines you activate, the more money you will have to spend each spin. Having said that, more pays can result in bigger winnings if the symbols match. However, it’s important to know that not all slots are created equal.

In case of a winning combination, the probability of a particular symbol on reel number j is given by multiplying the probabilities of the individual stops on each of the reels:

The payout value is based on how many matching symbols appear on a winning line in a single spin. This information can be found on the pay table of each slot. The pay tables also indicate how the lines work, what triggers a winning combination and any bonus features that are available on the slot.

The word “slot” is derived from the Middle Low German word *sluta, cognate with Dutch slot (“bolt, lock, castle”) and German Schloss (“lock, palace, manor, chateau”). A narrow notch, groove or opening, as in a keyway or slit for coins in a vending machine.