A slot is a narrow opening in a machine or container that can be filled with something. For example, a slot on a CD player can accept a disk. You can also slot a disk into a computer.

In football, a slot receiver is an offensive specialist that lines up on the outside of a formation, closer to the line of scrimmage. They are typically shorter and faster than traditional wide receivers, making them a target for defenses. Slot receivers can be particularly valuable in passing plays, helping to create open lanes for the ball carrier.

When you play a slot, it’s important to understand how the pay table works. The pay table is a key piece of information that can help you determine how much to bet and which combinations will result in winnings. A good slot pay table will be easy to read and highlight any special symbols, such as wilds, scatters, or bonus symbols. It should also include an explanation of how each feature works, including how to trigger them.

In addition to explaining the payout rules, a good slot pay table will provide a breakdown of how much each coin size costs per spin on the machine. This can be especially helpful if you’re looking to maximize your chances of hitting the jackpot. For example, Machine A may offer a high jackpot, but it might have lower middle-of-the-board paybacks. Machine B, on the other hand, might have a smaller jackpot but higher average paybacks.