I know it is important to learn, but with all of the OS stuff on the market now is it really important to know every nook and cranny of php? just a discussion question...
Nothing is a necessity, you can always choose between make or buy. But if you want to create scripts and programs or modify other peoples work it really helps to have some knowledge. What is important to know: - learn PHP5, not PHP4. - get a good grasp of the principles of Object Oriented Programming. Read about design patterns, if possible learn to read and draw class diagrams. - learn about the principles of PHP. Learn about the way this programming language is constructed (weakly typed, scope issues, references, etc). - don't waste time learning all functions by heart, you can look them up if needed. - bookmark http://php.net/ This is your best choice for documentation.
Absolutely. You wouldn't grab a pre-fab template and then use it without understanding enough css/html to modify it to your needs. Likewise, you shouldn't grab pre-fab php scripts and implement without a clue how the language works. You don't necessarily need to be a php-whiz, but at least a basic understanding would allow you to make minor modifications and do some error checking. Unless you're simply an editor/writer for a larger operation (where someone else is doing the web design/programming), you should take the time to learn the basics. - Walkere
I would say its worth learning the basics as walkere says. Chances are for complex stuff you will outsource (buy the script or hire a programmer) - so it would not be a good use of most peoples time to get into PHP heavily.
Worth learning? Yes A Necessity? Not really, but unless you have background in c++ or java then learning php would just take you 1 week.
Learn how to write PHP and MySQL and you will be able to make any kind of website you desire without having to pay a freelancer for it. the possiblilys are endless!
I'm not so sure with the PHP5 or PHP4, especially regarding the better compatibility bridging that PHP6 should bring.
It is certainly useful to know, but if you are trying to get going in the world of making money online, chances are you will do better concentrating on content, products and marketing rather than trying to spend 6 months learning PHP to a decent level. If you have the spare time and its a choice of learning PHP or watching TV - then go for PHP. If its a choice between Content and Creation (i.e learning to make the physical website yourself) then i personally would say go for the content. Add value.
If you are at the stage where you can code just about anything with PHP, you will realize that all the hard work has paid off
I'd say learning the basics is a good idea - if you find you're enjoying it, take it futher. If not, don't worry too much - but you need at least the basics so you aren't totally dependant on freelancers to make changes for you. If you can do the little things yourself it will save you time and money.