From the mechanical pull-to-play machines of decades ago to the towering video screens and quirky themes that dot casino floors, slot has come a long way. But many players fail to understand the math behind how these machines operate, and as a result, risk losing more than they came to play with.

The random number generator (RNG) is the engine that powers all outcomes on slot machines. Upon receiving a signal, from anything from a button being pressed to the handle being pulled, the RNG sets a sequence of numbers that determines the order in which symbols appear on the reels. When the RNG produces a winning combination, a payout is awarded.

Unlike in mechanical slots, where the weighting of symbols limited jackpot sizes and win frequencies, today’s electronic slots allow for thousands of combinations. This means that if you see another player hit a jackpot and think it should have been yours, don’t get too upset. The computer is running through dozens of possible combinations every second, so the chances that you would have pressed the button at exactly the same split-second as that other player are incredibly slim.

One of the most important things to remember while playing slots is to know when to quit. Getting greedy or betting more than you can afford to lose are two of the biggest mistakes that can be made. It’s best to set a budget for how much you are willing and able to spend on each gaming session before beginning play, so that you won’t be tempted to dip into other funds.