In the not-so-distant past, slot machines were considered second-class citizens among casino customers. Jackpots were small and payback percentages were often abysmal, but slot players persevered. As technology advanced and casinos began to recognize that slot players mattered, they started to improve their offerings. Today, slots are the most colorful and exciting attractions in a casino. They’re designed to draw you in with fun themes, huge jackpots and dazzling graphics—but they also drain your money in small increments. Here are some tips to help you play smarter.

1. Understand the odds.

While it may be tempting to keep playing a machine that’s hot, a good rule of thumb is to change machines after every loss. This can help prevent a losing streak, but it’s important to remember that a machine is never “due.” Its result on any given spin is completely random.

2. Use a bonus round.

Some slot games allow players to activate a second-screen bonus game by hitting certain combinations on the reels. Typical examples include a Party noisemaker that triggers three Bonus symbols, and a grid of packages in gift wrapping that the player can touch for bonus payouts. These games have helped video slots grow in popularity, but they can also add to a player’s frustration if they don’t hit enough of the right symbols.

3. Set limits before you start.