practical applications of php

Okay, say, in theory, I'm going to take a class on php. An independent study, actually.

What are some practical applications of php that I could use? What are the most common, and what would be something you think a beginner could do given 4 months, 1 hour a day, 5 days a week?

Basically, if I were to learn php, how would I use it?

 

That many hours of studying PHP should go a long way toward understanding how PHP contributes to practical applications like the four sites included in your signature. You could use PHP to create a philosophy forum or a seo friendly web directory.

 

Hey, thanks for the response. I appreciate ti.

But thing is, I doubt I could accomplish anything like that in 4 months time.

Anyone else?

 

I started playing around with php when I put up a phpBB forum site. I learned enough about php to make some changes to the code that I wanted to implement, it didn't take very long to learn. But, I have a strong programming background, so I was able to pick it up pretty quickly.

I would think that within 4 months you would be able to do the same sort of thing. Maybe write a plug-in or something for your vBulletin forum, for example.

 

Id say a directory system like suggested above would be something you could do.

Also you could create a store system which loads from a mysql database, should be able to display pictures, prices, descriptions, multiple pages. Also you should be able to click on a products title to get more description. That should be within your grasp with 4 months at 1 hour a day.

If you have extra time you might as well add in some product sort/filter options. I've used these systems quite a few times.

 

PHP is such a flexible code I'd definately recommend it. It can be used for simple things such as rotating banners, e-mailer scripts or full blown systems working in conjunction with mySQL, for example phpBB (Forum), PHPNuke (CMS).

I learnt php recently from a book - so I'm still not great but in a matter of about 2 weeks (I'm a VERY slow reader) I learnt the basics. It's given me so many more options when it comes to making a website. So yeah you could learnt it in quite a lot of depth in 4 months

Basically the most useful aspect of learning PHP and mySQL for me was the ability to make thousands of pages using 1 file and a database. Also the fact that you can make 1 template file for the whole of your website etc...

 

some applications ive done.. which shouldnt take more then a few months for a completely new user and would allow for a lot of learning.

shopping cart system

email verification forms, which also includes a generated image to prevent bots

shipping calculators (for usa only)

resume creator

members area with information targeted at them (IE local news, time)

events calendars with admin area to easily edit stuff

yeah not much fun stuff, these were all for websites ive done

 

Hey everyone, thanks for the responses. I appreciate it.

 

No probs - good luck learning it

 

Ya, no problem. Even though some dumbass gave me some red for trying to help you out...

 

What the hell? That's random... Here have a green

 

LOL... thanks!

 

No probs

 

You'd be amazed at what PHP can do. You can program whole sites with it. You could make another ebay if you wanted to (though it would take a very long time).

You'll find you pick it up pretty quickly. It's a pretty simple language. Plus, if you like it, you will be able to learn it on your own in extra time.