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key() Function: What It Is and Its Key Role in PHP Array Traversal

gitbox 2025-09-29
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echo "PHP tutorial example starts…\n";
$array = [1, 2, 3];
print_r($array);
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<h1><span class="hljs-title function_ invoke__">key() Function: What It Is and Its Key Role in PHP Array Traversal</h1>
<p>In PHP, the <code>key()

Output:

Fruit: apple, Quantity: 5
Fruit: banana, Quantity: 3
Fruit: orange, Quantity: 7

In this example, key() lets us get each fruit's name, while current() provides the quantity. Using them together achieves a complete array traversal.

4. Summary

key() is a lightweight yet essential function in PHP array operations. It can:

  • Retrieve the key at the current array pointer
  • Enable simultaneous access to keys and values within loops
  • Provide necessary information for dynamic associative array manipulation

Mastering key() alongside current() and next() is fundamental for advanced PHP array handling.

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