Do you ever feel like the slot machine is holding out on you? Maybe you have a decent win, but it feels like the machine needs to pay you back before giving you another payout. It’s almost as if the machine has some kind of code that prevents certain wins. This is a common feeling that many players have when playing online slots. It’s important to remember that these feelings are completely irrational. It’s hard to know if your gambling is getting out of hand, especially when you’re winning money. You may not be able to beat the house edge, but there are strategies you can use to increase your chances of ending a session in profit.

One of the most important things to do when playing online slots is to set a budget before you begin. This way, you can stop playing when you’ve reached your maximum limit. This will also ensure that you don’t lose any more than you want to. You can even set a loss limit for your auto-spins so that the game will stop once you reach that point.

It’s also a good idea to cash out any wins that you make quickly. Smaller wins that don’t nudge your account balance much won’t do much to help you continue playing, but a big win will definitely make it worth it to withdraw your winnings.

The temptation to play more slots can be intense. When you’re on a roll, the sense of dopamine that comes with each spin can lead you to believe that the next win is just around the corner. If you’re not careful, this can lead to a gambling addiction.

Many people play slot machines because they’re a fun way to pass the time. However, it’s important to recognize if your gambling is taking up too much of your time or if it’s impacting your finances, relationships or responsibilities. In some cases, it’s a sign of a bigger problem and you should seek help from a gambling counselor.

Another mistake that people often make when playing online slots is to play bonus games. These are usually expensive and can drain your bankroll in no time. It’s best to avoid them if you’re not sure that you can win them. If you do decide to go for it, try to avoid the bonus buy option and instead use your free spins or loyalty points for a different game.