There are no strategies to memorize, nevertheless, playing slots intelligently does require certain skills. Here are the basics of how to increase the likelihood of hitting a sizeable jackpot. For more detailed information check out "47 Ways To Beat The Slots".

On "straight" (or regular) slots the jackpot is part of the fixed pay schedule and never changes. The jackpot amount is clearly posted on the machine. Standard models generally offer more realistic odds with the trade-off being that you're playing for a much smaller top prize than what's dangled on the progressives.

As the name implies, the big jackpot on "progressive" machines grows larger and larger with every coin inserted. If you’re extremely lucky, you could win that huge jackpot.

As a rule, three-reel machines featuring bar symbols, with the traditional "7" denoting the top prize, are your best bet. The jackpot will be relatively modest, but so is the risk.

Four- or five-reel slots, featuring single, double and triple bars, sevens, or other emblems, usually offer a higher jackpot, but it’s harder to get.

Then there are the "progressives" dangling enormous jackpots. Remember that the odds on these machines are even higher. But then, huge jackpots are hit all the time . . . you never know, today could be your lucky day.

Before deciding how many coins to play, consider this: Most machines accept 2. 3, or 5 coins per spin. If the first coin returns a jackpot of 400 coins, the second 800, and the third 1,200, there isn't much advantage in playing multiple coins, unless you wouldn't be happy winning "only" 400 coins.

On some machines the jackpot is paid at a much higher multiplier on maximum coin play. Supposing, in the above example, three coins paid 2,500 coins instead of 1,200, then it would be foolish not to insert the maximum. Definitely play maximum coins if a bonus is offered.

To be a winner, you have to be a tough customer. If you're lucky enough to win an amount equal to your starting bankroll, quit! Don't get greedy -- continue playing and you WILL put it all back. You should know that from past experience! Now you're smarter!

As long as you’re not risking money that wasn’t meant for gambling, lots and lots of luck and have fun!