Chapter 2. Understanding PHP: Language Basics
So far you've bypassed the old, cumbersome method of creating a development environment, and you're now ready to start writing code.
But where do you start? In this chapter, I'll cover the steps you need to follow to start using PHP in the creation of powerful, dynamic web applications; you'll also begin to develop the basic skills you need to create your blog.
In this chapter, you'll learn how to accomplish several tasks:
Embed PHP in web pages
Send data as output to the browser
Add comments in your code
Use variables and understand the datatypes they support
Use operators to manipulate data
Use control structures to add power to your scripts
By the end of this chapter, you should be comfortable writing basic PHP that will allow you to create, store, manipulate, and output data.
NOTE
This chapter discusses basic aspects of the PHP language, but you should keep in mind that some functions won't be covered completely. For clarification, more examples, or for concept reinforcement, visit the PHP manual at http://www.php.net/manual/en/ and search the function in the field where it says, "search for _______ in the function list." Alternatively, you can access information about many PHP functions by navigating to http://php.net/function_name. Don't forget to read the comments because many of your fellow programmers offer insight, tips, and even additional functions in their commentary.