PHP for Absolute Beginners

2.2. Variables and Datatypes

So far, you've learned how to output data, as well as how to use variables to a certain extent. Before going any further, let's take a moment to drill down on variables and how they work.

2.2.1. What Is a Variable?

A variable is a keyword or phrase that acts as an identifier for a value stored in a system's memory. This is useful because it allows us to write programs that will perform a set of actions on a variable value, which means you can change the output of the program simply by changing the variable, rather than changing the program itself.

2.2.2. Storing Values in a Variable

PHP lets you store nearly anything in a variable using one of the following datatypes:

String: Alphanumeric characters, such as sentences ...