I've been exploring using AI tools for coding in PHP, specifically for developing scripts from scratch. I've tinkered with PHP on simple projects for ages, but recently, I decided to give an AI language model a shot to help me generate code. After testing out Gemini with a free trial, I found that it sometimes struggles to keep track of previous requests, leading to issues with the code it generates. To improve my learning process, I want an AI that can provide complete modified scripts each time I request changes. Which AI platform do you think excels in this area? I'm considering Gemini, ChatGPT, Claude, or Perplexity and would love your recommendations for PHP coding.
5 Answers
Honestly, all these AI tools are pretty similar for your needs. While it's great that you learn by querying them, be aware that if you want to code, it might be more beneficial to actually write the code yourself. You might just end up learning how to navigate the AI rather than understanding how coding works.
It's crucial to use an LLM that can remember past messages effectively. Also, consider feeding it screenshots of your app's file structure and full code snippets to help it retain context quickly. However, keep in mind that relying solely on AI for learning isn't the best approach. You should learn the underlying concepts; it's like trying to tame a dog without knowing how dogs behave! Instead, ask the AI to create training scenarios to help solidify your understanding as you tackle new challenges.
From my experience, I've had great success with Deepseek for PHP. It's been my go-to for solid code and chat interactions! Also, ZZZCode.ai has a good code generator but it's less conversational.
For PHP coding, I've found Cursor and Copilot for VS Code to be the best tools. They offer different modes to work in, like chat and agentic, which help greatly with context and history. For version control, using Git with GitHub can also help you manage your changes effectively as you develop.
I prefer Gemini mainly because of its efficiency with tokens and consistent results. Claude 3.5 was good for a while, but 3.7 just didn't meet my expectations. ChatGPT has been a lifesaver sometimes, but it can also lead you into frustrating loops.
Absolutely! That method really helps you get the most out of the AI.