Table of Contents
How to Write Multiline Comments the Right Way
When to Use Multiline vs. Single-Line Comments
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using Multiline Comments for Code Organization
Home Backend Development PHP Tutorial Mastering PHP Multiline Code Comments

Mastering PHP Multiline Code Comments

Jul 18, 2025 am 04:48 AM
php Code comments

PHP provides two main ways to write comments: single-line and multiline, with the latter being ideal for longer explanations or documentation-style notes using the / / syntax. Use multiline comments when writing detailed descriptions (more than 2–3 lines), documenting functions or file headers, or temporarily disabling large code blocks. Reserve single-line comments (//) for quick inline notes, small snippets, or short clarifications. Avoid common mistakes such as nesting comments, forgetting the closing tag, or over-commenting. Multiline comments can also help organize code visually by separating logical sections, especially in larger files, but should be used consistently and without excessive formatting. Proper use of multiline comments improves code readability and maintainability without causing distractions or errors.

Mastering PHP Multiline Code Comments

Writing multiline comments in PHP isn't complicated, but it's something every developer needs to get right—especially when working on larger projects or collaborating with others. The goal is to make your code readable and maintainable, and good commenting plays a big part in that.

Mastering PHP Multiline Code Comments

Here’s how to do it well without overthinking.


How to Write Multiline Comments the Right Way

PHP offers two main ways to write comments: single-line and multiline. When you need to explain something more detailed—like a function's purpose, a block of logic, or a note for future reference—multiline comments are your go-to.

Mastering PHP Multiline Code Comments

The standard syntax is:

/*
This is a multiline comment.
You can write as much as you need here.
It won't be executed by PHP.
*/

These comments are great for explaining complex blocks of code or writing documentation-style notes. Just remember, anything inside /* */ will be completely ignored by the interpreter.

Mastering PHP Multiline Code Comments

When to Use Multiline vs. Single-Line Comments

It's easy to fall into the trap of using one style for everything, but choosing the right format matters for readability.

Use multiline comments when:

  • You're writing longer explanations (more than 2–3 lines)
  • Documenting functions, classes, or file headers
  • Temporarily disabling a large chunk of code during testing

Use single-line comments (//) when:

  • Making quick inline notes
  • Commenting out small snippets for debugging
  • Adding short clarifications next to code

A quick example:
If you're describing a function at the top of a file, go with multiline. But if you're adding a note beside a variable assignment, stick with //.


Common Mistakes to Avoid

Multiline comments seem straightforward, but there are a few gotchas that can trip you up.

  • Nesting comments: PHP doesn’t support nested multiline comments. If you try to put /* ... */ inside another /* ... */, it’ll break your code.
  • Forgetting the closing tag: A missing */ can cause your entire script to fail silently. Always double-check that your comment is properly closed.
  • Over-commenting: It’s tempting to explain every line, but too many comments clutter your code. Focus on explaining why something is done, not just what is done.

Also, avoid using multiline comments for quick debugging. It's easy to miss a closing tag, and tools like linters or minifiers might behave unexpectedly.


Using Multiline Comments for Code Organization

Beyond documentation, multiline comments can help structure your code visually—especially in long files.

Some developers use them to separate logical sections like this:

/*
|--------------------------------------------------------------------------
| User Authentication Section
|--------------------------------------------------------------------------
|
| Handles login, logout, and session management.
|
*/

While this isn't necessary in smaller scripts, it becomes really helpful in larger files or legacy systems where clear visual separation improves readability.

Just keep it consistent. Don't mix styles randomly, and don’t go overboard with fancy formatting—it should enhance clarity, not distract from it.


That’s pretty much all you need to know. It's not rocket science, but handling multiline comments properly makes your code easier to read and maintain. And once you get used to the best practices, it becomes second nature.

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