How to write effective documentation for PHP functions?

Yes, it is possible to write valid PHP function documentation: use the docblock comment syntax placed before the function definition. Include the following required elements: Description: Briefly describe what the function does. Parameters: Specify the type and description of each parameter. Return value: Specify the type and description of the return value. Consider including the following recommended elements: Example: Provide an example of a function call. History: Indicates the PHP version in which the function was introduced. Author: Lists the name of the function author.

How to write effective documentation for PHP functions?

Effective function documentation is a key part of writing high-quality PHP code. Clear and comprehensive documentation can help developers quickly understand how a function works and reduce errors and maintenance costs.

Comment syntax

PHP uses docblocks comment syntax to document functions. docblocks should be placed before the function definition, as follows:

/**
 * 计算两个数字的和。
 *
 * @param int $a 第一个数字
 * @param int $b 第二个数字
 * @return int 两个数字的和
 */
function add(int $a, int $b): int
{
    return $a + $b;
}

Required elements

A valid function documentation should include the following required elements:

• Description (*): Briefly describe the function and purpose of the function.
• Parameters (@param): For each function parameter, specify its type and description.
• Return value (@return): Specify the type and description of the function return value.
• Exceptions (@throws): Any exceptions that may be thrown by the specified function.

Recommended elements

You can also include the following recommended elements:

• Example (@example): Provides an example of a function call .
• History (@since): Indicates in which PHP version the function was introduced.
• Author (@author): List the name of the function author.

Practical Case

Consider the following example:

/**
 * 格式化由 PHP 提供的日期对象。
 *
 * @param DateTime $date 要格式化的日期对象
 * @param string $format 输出格式字符串
 * @return string 格式化的日期字符串
 * @throws InvalidArgumentException 如果 $format 不支持
 */
function formatDate(DateTime $date, string $format): string
{
    if (!preg_match('/^[a-zA-Z0-9_]+$/', $format)) {
        throw new InvalidArgumentException('无效的格式字符串');
    }

    return $date->format($format);
}

Conclusion

By following the above guidelines, you can write clear and effective documentation for your PHP functions . This will make your code easier to understand for other developers, thus improving code quality and maintainability.

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