I'm training to become an IT specialist focusing on web development, and I need to master PHP. I tried a course on Udemy, but honestly, it's not great. The instructor keeps contradicting himself and suggests changes that confuse me instead of helping. I'm hoping to find some better platforms or resources to learn PHP effectively. Also, how long should I expect it to take to learn PHP if I really commit to it?
2 Answers
PHP is indeed a bit of a mixed bag with its features, and you're right about a lot of code using bad patterns just for compatibility. But don’t sweat it—80% of websites are made with PHP, so there’s a ton of resources out there! Just don’t get discouraged by those shortcomings; focus on building real projects to practice your skills!
I totally get your frustration with that Udemy course! It's tough when instructors are inconsistent. For learning PHP, I'd recommend checking out the official PHP Manual on PHP.net. It might not be the most exciting read, but it’s the best reference. Also, freeCodeCamp has a fantastic free PHP course on YouTube that'll help you build a solid foundation. Just remember, focus on the basics first—variations, loops, and all that. Start coding something simple right away! And it sounds like you’d really benefit from using an AI assistant for clarifying tricky concepts as you go along. You’ll get the hang of it! Good luck!
That’s great advice! I also found devdocs.io super helpful for structured PHP references. Plus, check out codedex.io too; it’s fun for learning through challenges, especially for JavaScript!

Exactly! Just dive in and start coding, you'll learn a lot more by doing than just reading or watching videos!