The key to writing PHP code well is to write self-explanatory code so that people can understand without commenting. 1. The naming should be clear, such as variables use $userRegistrationDate instead of $x; 2. The function starts with a verb such as sendEmailNotification(), and only does one thing; 3. The class name uses nouns such as UserAuthenticator; 4. Keep the structure neat, indent and logical chunking; 5. Use type prompts and return value declarations to enhance readability.
Writing PHP code well is not only about making the program run, but more importantly, it is about making people understand it. The core of Self-documenting code is that when others read your code, you can understand what you are doing without additional comments . This not only improves collaboration efficiency, but also reduces maintenance costs.
Clear naming is better than a thousand words
Variables, functions, and class names are the first impressions of reading code. If you see a $x or getData() , you may have to look through for a long time to know what it does. But if it is $userRegistrationDate or calculateFinalPriceWithTax() , the meaning is clear at a glance.
- Variable name : Avoid abbreviation or fuzzy words, such as
$uis changed to$user,$dis changed to$deadline - Function name : start with a verb, such as
sendEmailNotification()andvalidateFormInput() - Class name : Use nouns to express clear responsibilities, such as
UserAuthenticatorinstead ofAuth
Don't be afraid of the long name, as long as it's accurate. The IDE will help you complete it, and the human brain won't complain about the naming that is too clear.
Functions should be small, specialized, and have fewer side effects
A function does only one thing, which is the key to writing self-documenting code. If a function connects to a database, processes data, and sends emails, it is not only difficult to test, but also difficult to understand.
For example:
function processOrder($orderData) {
$order = validateOrderData($orderData);
saveOrderToDatabase($order);
sendOrderConfirmationEmail($order['email']);
}Each step is handed over to a smaller function, and the main process will naturally be clear. In this way, even if there is no comment, others can see the key actions of "Verification->Storage->Send Email".
The structure and format must also be "readable"
PHP is a flexible language, but it is also easy to write chaotic structures. Maintaining a unified indentation, bracket style, and logical chunking can make the code look cleaner.
for example:
- Do not nest too many layers of logic in the control structure (if/foreach)
- The methods in the class are arranged in logical order, such as the constructor in front, the core method in center, and the auxiliary function in the back
- Use empty lines to separate different functional paragraphs, just like writing an article to segment
Sometimes adding a blank line is more helpful than adding a comment.
Use type prompts and return value declarations appropriately
PHP supports type declarations since 7, which is not only for the compiler, but also for people to see. for example:
function calculateTotalPrice(array $items): float {
// ...
}You can know at a glance what parameters this function accepts and what type it returns, and you don’t need to guess or check documents anymore.
In addition, combining PHPDoc (such as @param and @return ) can further enhance the IDE's prompting ability and also facilitate others to quickly understand your intentions.
Basically that's it. Writing self-documenting PHP code is not about pursuing skills, but about making it easier for others and future self to take over. Clearly named, single functions, neat structure, and a little type prompt, you can save a lot of comment time.
The above is the detailed content of Self-Documenting PHP Code. For more information, please follow other related articles on the PHP Chinese website!
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