How to learn PHP?

I want to learn PHP so please suggest me which is the best way to learn PHP?

And this is an excellent site for referencing functions with examples. Not just PHP, but just about anything...

http://www.w3schools.com/

No, this is not a good resource. They're full of bad practices, false information and bad advice. See W3Fools for an in-depth explanation of why this site should neither be used for learning nor as a reference.

Unfortunately, they've managed to gain some popularity by tricking people into believing they're are an "official" site by the W3C. They are not! It's a private site that seems to be mainly focused on selling "certificates", not so much on spreading knowledge.

What I would suggest is buying a good old book (like Learning PHP, MySQL, JavaScript, and CSS by O'Reilly). And the documentation at php.net is a good reference for specific topics. If you're looking for an online tutorial, see the Quakenet/#php Tutorial

Whatever you do: Think for yourself and use multiple sources, don't just copy and paste other peoples' code. The internet is full of sh*tty PHP code with outdated features and unsecure practices, so it's better to actually learn the language and program yourself.

I recommend Matt Zandstra's two PHP books. For absolute beginners, the Sams Learn PHP in 24 hours should be able to make you an intermediate skilled programmer by the time you finish reading all the chapters. Once at this level, you should read the other book by Zandstra: PHP Object, Patterns and Practices. If you truly understand everything in these two books, you will be close to advanced programmer.

PHP is an open source and it's very easy to learn online. There is an official website of PHP . "www.php.net" Use This site to learn PHP in proper manner. Also You can go through w3schools.com There is lots of material which will helpful to you.

Before you start learning PHP, it's probably a good idea if you have at least some HTML knowledge. There are so many free tutorials available on internet. You can easily learn PHP from those.

Go with www.php.net where you can learn whole php in a simple manner. Furthermore, Learn about Html and CSS, which are helpful to you.

For a total newbie, I would recommend PHP in Easy Steps by Mike McGrath. It is very short and will get you up and going in no time.