Introduction to Static Methods and Properties
Explore how static methods and properties work in PHP object-oriented programming, including their definition, access with scope resolution, and typical uses like counters and utility classes. Understand when to use static features cautiously to avoid global state and challenges in testing.
In certain cases, we might want to approach the methods and properties of a class without the need to first create an object of that class. We can do this by defining the methods and properties of a class as static. Even though the use of static methods and properties is not considered good practice, there are certain cases where it may be particularly useful.
Note: We can access static methods and properties without the need to first create an object, but their use should be limited.
In the previous lessons, we learned about public, protected, and private modifiers. Now, we’ll look at the static modifier. Static modifiers allow access to class properties and methods without the need to create objects of that class.
Defining static methods and properties
We use the ...