Creating arrays
- PHP course
- Beginner
- Lesson 53/116
- 4 min
Learn to create arrays with the array() and [] syntax.
What is an array?
An array is a way to store many values in a single variable. Instead of keeping three exam scores in separate variables, you can gather them in one array.
PHP creates arrays in two ways: with the array() function or with the [] short syntax. Modern PHP prefers []. For example, $scores = [85, 92, 78]; stores three scores in one array.
Indexed arrays
Each value in an array has an index. Values get indexes starting from 0 in the order they are added: the first element has index 0, the second 1, the third 2.
So in $scores = [85, 92, 78]; the index of 85 is 0, of 92 is 1 and of 78 is 2. Such arrays are called indexed arrays.
Practice Print the first score
Define the $scores array with the values [85, 92, 78]. Then use echo to print the first score (index 0). Append "\n" at the end.
Starter code
<?php
// Define the array and print the first scoreSample solution
<?php
// Define the array and print the first score
$scores = [85, 92, 78];
echo $scores[0] . "\n";Expected output
85
Questions and answers
Review the lesson questions together with their answers. To test yourself, solve the lesson interactively.
1 Which is a valid array definition?
- $scores = (85, 92, 78);
- $scores = [85, 92, 78]; Correct answer
- $scores = {85, 92, 78};
- $scores = 85, 92, 78;
Explanation: The [] short syntax creates an array.
2 Complete the array definition
$scores = ____;$scores = [85, 92, 78];Explanation: Values separated by commas inside square brackets form an array.
3 Match each array concept
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
array() |
Function-form array |
[] |
Short array syntax |
[0] |
Index of first element |
85, 92, 78 |
Comma-separated values |
4 After $scores = [10, 20, 30]; how many elements are in the array?
$scores = [10, 20, 30];- 1
- 2
- 3 Correct answer
- 4
Explanation: There are three comma-separated values: 10, 20 and 30.