PHP Method Calling Guide: Object Methods and Static Methods Explained

Overview of Method Calling in PHP

In PHP, there are two main ways to call methods: object methods and static methods. Object methods require an object instance, while static methods can be called directly via the class name without creating an object. The typical steps for calling a method include: determining the method name, creating an object instance (for object methods), using the correct syntax, passing parameters if needed, executing the method, and obtaining the return value if required.

Object Methods

If you have an object instance, you can use an object method to call its methods. The syntax is as follows:

$object->methodName();

Example:

$person->getName(); // Get the name property of the Person object

Static Methods

Static methods do not rely on an object instance and can be called directly via the class name. The syntax is as follows:

ClassName::methodName();

Example:

Person::getDemoName(); // Get the demoName property of the Person class

Steps to Call a Method

The general steps to call a method are as follows:

• Determine the name of the method to call.
• If it's an object method, create the object instance first.
• Use the correct syntax according to the method type (object or static).
• Pass any required parameters after the method name.
• Execute the method and get the return value if needed.

Mastering these method calling techniques helps PHP developers use objects and classes more efficiently, making code clearer and easier to maintain.