The term slot is used in many different ways, from the literal definition of an opening or gap to its figurative sense of an assigned position or spot:
1. a specific time and place for an aircraft to take off or land:
You check-in online, make it through security, find your gate, queue for the boarding bridge, struggle with the overhead lockers, get settled into your seat and wait. You hear the captain say, “We’re waiting for a slot.” What is a slot, and why can’t we take off?
2. a place or position for an aircraft:
The word slot has been around a long time. In fact, it is an important part of the history of aviation. The first slots were carved out of wood and were used as markers for the positions of aircraft that needed to take off or land. These slots were located at various airports throughout the world. Later, they were replaced by numbered markers on the ground. The word slot also comes from the Latin word sleuth, which means detective or investigator.
In modern slot machines, the spinning reels have been replaced by a video image, but the basic mechanics are still the same. Players pull a handle that rotates a series of reels (typically three) with pictures printed on them. Winning or losing depends on which images line up with the pay line, a straight vertical line running through the center of the machine. If all three reels show the same winning picture, the player wins.
3. a computer determines your sequence:
In most modern slot games, the reels are controlled by a central computer that records a random number for each spin. This number is then compared to an internal sequence table to determine the corresponding reel location. Once the computer finds the corresponding locations, it causes the reels to stop at those positions. The computer then uses an internal algorithm to calculate how much you win if any symbols match up.
4. the pay table is displayed:
The pay tables for slot machines are usually printed on the machine or embedded in its help screen. Historically, the tables were written in English and were quite short. However, with the advent of HD screens and more complex games, the tables have grown considerably. In addition, the tables are now often illustrated with graphics to improve their clarity.
A good pay table will clearly explain the rules of the game, including which symbols can form a winning combination and how much you can win if you land three or more matching symbols on a single payline. It will also highlight any special symbols that may be present, such as wild or scatter symbols. Often, these will be illustrated with colorful graphics that fit in with the overall theme of the slot. Some even feature animations, which can be helpful for people who learn best visually. In addition, most pay tables will feature a graphic showing each symbol, along with the amounts you can win if you land three or four of them on a single payline.