The Slot Expert's Guide to Playing Slots by John Robison

What does "Average Payback" mean? What is "Hit Frequency"? What type of slot machines should you play with only one coin and which ones should you play full-coin? How do you find the machines that are best for your bankroll?

The answers to these questions and more can be found in The Slot Expert's Guide to Playing Slots, written by John Robison (author of Inside Atlantic City Slot Clubs; contributor to Midwest Gaming and Travel, Atlantic City Insider, and Strictly Slots; managing editor of Frank Scoblete's Gaming Pages) and published by Huntington Press. This small but fact-filled guide contains a complete description of terms ("action," "bonusing," "RNG," "virtual reel"), an effective classification of slot games (multipliers, buy-a-pays, hybrids, multiline, Australian, progressives), as well as effective strategies for each type.

For example, Robison recommends playing one coin at a time on straight multiplier games (such as Double Diamond) but full coin on buy-a-pays (like Sizzling Sevens).

"Since playing slots falls under the category of 'negative-expectation' game," states Robison, "you should be prepared to lose money over the long term, but there is no reason to lose more than necessary."

The guide also offers valuable information on bankroll considerations, tax advice and general player safety ("Never carry a bucket of coins out of a casino."). Robison also debunks popular slot myths ("Just because a machine hasn't hit a jackpot does not mean that is is due to pay.").

The Slot Expert's Guide to Playing Slots is $9.95 and is available from Huntington Press, 3687 S. Procyon Ave., Las Vegas, NV 89103, 1-800-244-2224, www.greatstuff4gamblers.com.