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Complete Guide to PHP Interview Knowledge: From Basics to Framework Practice

M66 2025-11-03

Essential PHP Interview Basics

When preparing for a PHP interview, it’s important to build a solid foundation. Understanding PHP syntax and core concepts is the first step in demonstrating your development ability. You should know how to work with variables, constants, operators, and control structures, as well as understand the relationship between functions, classes, and objects. Exception handling is also crucial, as it shows your ability to write stable and reliable code.

  • PHP syntax and basic data types
  • Variables, constants, and operators
  • Control flow statements (if/else, switch/case, loops)
  • Functions, classes, and objects
  • Exception handling and error management

Backend Development Skills

Interviewers often focus on backend logic and data interaction. Understanding the HTTP protocol, RESTful API design, and common database systems such as MySQL or PostgreSQL is essential. Knowledge of ORM frameworks, form validation, and session management is also frequently tested.

  • HTTP protocol and RESTful API design
  • Database management and SQL optimization
  • Using ORM frameworks like Eloquent or Doctrine
  • Form validation and secure data handling
  • Session management and user authentication

Frontend Integration and Template Engines

Although PHP is a backend language, having basic frontend skills helps with teamwork and integration. Familiarity with HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, along with PHP template engines like Twig or Blade, can improve project efficiency and maintainability.

  • Basic knowledge of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript
  • Template engine usage (Twig, Blade, etc.)
  • AJAX and jQuery interactions
  • Responsive design and frontend-backend integration

Common PHP Frameworks and Practical Use

Knowing at least one mainstream PHP framework gives you a clear advantage. Interview questions may cover routing, controllers, models, as well as dependency injection, service containers, and database migrations.

  • Experience with Laravel, Symfony, or CodeIgniter
  • Understanding routing, controllers, and models
  • Dependency injection and service containers
  • ORM usage and database migration

Development Tools and Performance Optimization

Version control, debugging, and performance optimization demonstrate professional coding standards. Use examples from real projects to show your proficiency in these areas.

  • Proficiency with Git and version control
  • Debugging and log analysis
  • Code and database performance optimization
  • Experience with unit and integration testing

Project Experience and Soft Skills

Beyond technical knowledge, project experience and soft skills matter a lot. Demonstrating how you’ve used design patterns, followed best practices, and solved real-world problems will make you stand out.

  • Participation in real PHP development projects
  • Understanding of design patterns and best practices
  • Strong teamwork and communication abilities
  • Continuous learning and self-improvement mindset

Conclusion

A PHP interview is not just about syntax—it’s about how well you understand development processes, frameworks, and collaboration. By mastering the topics above and showcasing your practical experience, you’ll be well-prepared to succeed in any PHP interview.