A slot is a space in a computer that can be used for installing an expansion card. It may also refer to a position on the screen where a programme is scheduled to appear, or to a block of time in which programmes are broadcast. In the UK, a slot is also a name for a television or radio strand of programming. These include the BBC’s specialized overnight strands such as BBC Select, and the BBC Learning Zone (which broadcasts repeat programmes with in-vision interpretation).

Charles Fey invented the slot machine in 1891, making it far more advanced than Sittman and Pitt’s earlier machines. His version allowed automatic payouts and displayed symbols such as hearts, horseshoes, and liberty bells. Three aligned liberty bells were the highest possible win and gave the game its name.

Today, a slot can be a computer-generated image that appears on the screen of a video game. A player can trigger this display by pressing a button or key on the console, or by entering a code. The slot can then display a short animation that highlights the winning combination. It can even reveal a bonus round that rewards the player with additional spins, multipliers, or jackpot prizes.

A slot can also refer to a pay table, which lists the payouts for specific combinations of symbols and bet amounts. This information is essential for understanding how a slot works. It can help a player choose the best game for their budget and style of play. In addition, the pay table can provide important information about the odds of winning and losing.