A slot is a position in the route tree that allows a wide receiver to stretch the defense vertically off the line of scrimmage. Slot receivers are typically quicker and more agile than boundary receivers, who can only run straight downfield or inward. A slot receiver is a key piece of any offense, and they can often be found in the NFL.

Slot is also a term in computing, referring to an expansion card that adds a specific function to a computer motherboard. There are many different types of slots, including ISA, PCI, AGP and memory slots. A motherboard may contain a single or multiple slots, each of which can be used to connect to additional devices or software.

Penny slots are a particular draw for casino visitors. Their bright lights, jingling jangling and frenetic activity are engineered to keep players glued to their machines. But it’s essential to protect your bankroll by setting a limit before you start spinning.

The first step to playing smarter is to know your machine. This means reading the help screen and studying the rules before you play. It’s also important to understand how much you can win and what your maximum cashout amount is. Don’t get distracted by bonuses and jackpots – these should never be more important than your bankroll.