Exploring PHP 8: Small Steps to Giant Leaps

Explore PHP 8, from foundational concepts to the advanced, modern features that drive today’s web applications. Whether you are a beginner, an experienced developer, or returning to PHP after some time away, this book offers practical techniques to help you write cleaner, more efficient code. 

The book starts with a detailed guide on setting up a variety of systems for PHP development tailored to your needs. PHP's data handling features are explained in detail, with reference to the underlying architecture of modern computers, before moving on to language concepts and features. Finally, PHP 8 is placed in its context as a leading programming language for the internet, with features explained in tandem with the relevant core internet technologies. 

You will learn how to correctly handle multibyte text, a classic source of bugs in web development. You will explore PHP’s object-oriented features, gaining a clear understanding of how objects work and how to design and use them effectively. Throughout the book, PHP 8’s latest features are showcased and explained through a wealth of code examples and detailed explanations.  

What You Will Learn:  

• Understand the basics of computer programming, data representation, and web development. 

• Master object-oriented design in PHP using advanced PHP 8 features. 

• Work in different environments, including Docker. 

• Review common mistakes and how to avoid them. 

• Handle numbers, text, structured data, and manage dates and times effectively. 

• Analyze problems and implement code solutions. 

• Apply techniques for debugging and error handling. 

Who This Book is for:  

Absolute beginners new to coding and PHP. More experienced web developers might also find value in the book’s exploration of modern and advanced features in PHP 8. 

Paul Tregoing has worked with PHP for twenty years, beginning with five years as a senior software engineer in the frontpage team at Yahoo! He has worked in variety of industries for organisations such as Bloomberg and Awin Global. Paul was also the technical editor for PHP 8 Objects, Patterns, and Practice (5th, 6th, and 7th editions).