How do I convert VCHAR to INT?

I have a PHP script that needs to show the top 10 ratings stored in the database.

I found out the only way I can store decimals in the database is to use VCHAR...

... but when I use my script.. I order by the rating... and if the number is 10 ... it will show up as less than 9.

So the only way 10 comes up as more than 9 .. is if it's "INT"

So how can I use a number stored as VCHAR and convert it to INT ... so order it correctly?

What kind of database is this that you have to use varchar to store decimals? All databases I know of support float types....

Anyway, try casting it if you can't convert it.

hmmmm thinking I should have posted this in the Newbie forum

well... I'm using MySQL ... I'm so confused.. sigh ... I don't know what Casting is..... I guess I'll do some research today.

For some reason though... when I insert my rating into the database that has an INT field... the 9.23 turns into just 9.

but if I was to insert that same value into a VCHAR field.. it would stay 9.23.

It would be nice if I could insert 9.23 into a INT field.

thanks LordShryku... but I still don't really understand this... 🙁