PHP Include
In this chapter you will learn PHP Include. Globaltuts.com uses a simple lesson flow: explain the idea, show a working example, then highlight what to practice next.
This chapter is part of a longer track. Take your time, run every example locally, and use the Next link at the bottom when you are ready to continue.
What you will learn
- Define PHP Include in plain language and know when to use it
- See how PHP Include fits into server-side web pages and forms
- Study a complete example with expected output
- Avoid common beginner mistakes called out in this lesson
- Complete the practice checklist before moving to the next chapter
Before you start
Place files in your web server document root (MAMP/XAMPP) and open them via http://localhost.
You do not need to memorize everything on the first pass. Focus on running the example and noticing how it fits into the bigger picture of server-side web pages and forms.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Changing many lines at once so you cannot tell which change fixed or broke the output.
- Memorizing syntax without knowing when to use PHP Include in a real project.
- Deploying tutorial snippets to production without validation, authentication, or security review.
- Using outdated syntax from an old blog post instead of the track you are following on this site.
Practice checklist
- Read the introduction once without typing, then read it again while following along.
- Run the example exactly as shown and confirm the output matches the preview.
- Change one variable or attribute and predict the result before refreshing.
- Write a two-sentence summary of PHP Include in your own words in a notes file.
Introduction
PHP Include is used when you work with server-side web pages and forms.
If you are new, do not rush. Re-read this section, then type the example manually instead of copy-pasting blindly.
Type the example even when copy-paste is faster— your fingers remember brackets and quotes.
Concept in depth
When you see PHP Include in documentation or on the job, it usually solves a specific problem: keeping server-side web pages and forms predictable, maintainable, and easy for others to read.
Compare the example below with the previous chapter in this track. Notice what changed and ask yourself why the author structured it that way.
Example
The sample below is intentionally small so you can see the core idea. Extend it only after you understand each line.
Match your output to the preview under the code block. If something differs, check typos, file paths, and whether you saved the file.
<?php
require __DIR__ . '/header.php';
// page content
require __DIR__ . '/footer.php';
?>Below is how the output typically looks in a browser, terminal, or API client:
Request handled successfully.
Explanation
Edit a single line, save, and run again— watch which message or layout moves.
Write a short note in your own words after each example so you remember why each line matters when you come back to this topic later.
If you get stuck on PHP Include, search this site for related chapters in the same track or use the menu search from the home page.
Summary
You should now recognize when to use PHP Include in a project. Use the Previous and Next buttons at the bottom of this white content area to continue the course in order.
Revisit this page when you build a real feature—tutorial chapters make more sense the second time.
Key takeaways
- PHP Include is a core idea when working with server-side web pages and forms.
- Small, runnable examples beat long theory—experiment after each lesson.
- Use the sidebar and search to revisit this chapter whenever you build something similar.