Triple your chances of winning on the slot machines

For the avid gambler the slot machines are one of the most challenging forms of even betting. But some people have been so successful, they’ve been banned from some establishments, particularly the smaller casinos where jackpot payouts reach R1,000 in cash. One of those people is Doug Read, a well-practiced gambler. And today I've convinced him to share some of his secrets with you.

So, if you plan on hitting the slots this weekend, be sure to memorise these seven closely-guarded secrets from a gambler who knows how to beat those machines...

1.    Only play machines that offer prizes worth winning. Machines with jackpot payouts of R500 or more are best.

2.    Play and stick to one machine at a time. Slot machines are programmed to pay out a certain percentage of their takings (about 70%). It can only pay out if you play it long enough to trigger this.

3.    Never gamble a "win". You may be tempted to do this for an even greater win. But if you refuse to gamble your winnings, the machine will have to pay you in the form of direct wins or a jackpot.

4.    Watch other players at the ‘complicated’ machines. Slot machines with “feature screens” should be observed first. Watch other people play it for a few hours before risking your own money.

5.    Never gamble features or “nudges” offered during play. Always collect what you’re offered as soon as it’s offered.

6.    Never use the “hold” buttons unless you’re guaranteed a win by doing so. For example a winning line which is available to hold for a second spin.

7.    Don’t visit one establishment too often. Instead, try master one machine and find several casinos that have that same machine.

So if you're going gambling this weekend, make sure to memorise these tips. They're bound to help you take home the jackpot!