Ever wondered how WordPress uses an echo shorthand without having to write out the word echo. Then wonder no further, it can be accomplished with just a few lines of code:

// An alternative function of using the echo command.
 
function _e($translate) {
 
echo $translate;
 
}

I decided to start a new series called PHP Tips. I will be posting some tips and code snippets that will help people become better PHP developers. For the first one, is it better to use return or echo in your PHP functions? As you’ve probably been told, it depends on the situation. But here is a rule of thumb; if the function is only used once, then use echo. If the function is used more than once throughout the application, then it is best to use return and especially if you plan on manipulating that function before its output. If the function is actually a method within a class, you should always use return.

A day is coming when people with great ideas will be able to collaborate online with others about a new project that he/she has in mind. It will not be like in the days of our fathers when there was no internet and no convenient way of brainstorming with 100′s of people online at the same time. Thank goodness for ProjectPress Read more →