freeCodeCamp's The PHP Handbook teaches PHP fundamentals, object-oriented programming, and working with databases. The entire course is free on freeCodeCamp.org in video and written formats. After finishing, you can write PHP scripts and understand how PHP powers dynamic websites. PHP runs on about 77% of websites with a known backend, making it one of the most widely deployed languages. The main limitation: older language with some quirky design decisions. Modern frameworks (Laravel, Symfony) are more enjoyable to use than raw PHP, so pair this with Laravel to see PHP's full potential.
PHP is used in 77.5% of all websites with a known server-side programming language according to W3Techs (source: w3techs.com/technologies/details/pl-php).
About This Course
freeCodeCamp's free PHP handbook by Flavio Copes. A complete written introduction to PHP — syntax, control flow, functions, arrays, OOP, and working with databases. A solid foundation in one of the web's most widely-deployed server languages.
Course Details
Frequently Asked Questions
Is freeCodeCamp's PHP course free?
Yes, completely free. Video and written handbook both on freeCodeCamp.org.
Is PHP still relevant?
Very. Most of the web runs on PHP (WordPress, Drupal, Laravel apps). Learning PHP opens doors to maintaining and building sites.
Is PHP a good language to learn?
For web development, yes. For general programming, other languages are more elegant. PHP is web-focused and good at what it does.
Does this teach Laravel or Symfony?
No, just PHP core. After this, learn Laravel (PHP's most popular web framework) to build modern PHP applications.
What's the job market like for PHP?
Strong. WordPress development, custom PHP sites, and Laravel positions are plentiful and often pay well.
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