There’s really not an awful lot you need to know in order to play slot machines.

The object of “regular” slots is to have three matching symbols in line when the wheel stops spinning. The game is started by putting a token or money in the machine. After this, push the button or pull the lever to get the reels spinning. When they come to a stop, you will hit the jackpot if you have three of the same symbol, such as three cherries.

But even if you have less than three of a kind, some slot machines will still pay out.

Some casinos have machines with multiple pay lines, which is when players can play with more than one coin and place bets on multiple rows. This increases the odds of winning because it is likely one row will have a match.

“Video Slots” play more or less the same, though they usually have multiple paylines, and 5 reel as opposed to three. While the payout schedule is usually more intricate, the goal remains the same – lining up symbols from left to right on a payline.

Payouts will often be different from machine to machine, so be sure to check the payout schedule before playing.