fetching data from mysql and the best way to do it?

[lifeasalounge]

Hey all,

I was looking at these functions:

• mysql_fetch_row()

• mysql_fetch_assoc()

• mysql_fetch_array()

I know what each of them do but i do not understand which one i should be using and where?

For example, whats the difference between using mysql_fetch_assoc and mysql_fetch_array($result, MYSQL_ASSOC)?

Could someone give me some info. on this? Thanks.

[devinemke]

lifeasalounge wrote:

For example, whats the difference between using mysql_fetch_assoc and mysql_fetch_array($result, MYSQL_ASSOC)?

nothing, they are exactly the same.

if you only need each row from your query as an enumerated array then use [man]mysql_fetch_row[/man]. if you only need each row from your query as an asscociated array then use [man]mysql_fetch_assoc[/man]. if you need both then use [man]mysql_fetch_array[/man].

95% of the time i use [man]mysql_fetch_assoc[/man] as i almost always want to refer to fields by their names (rather then by numbers).

[MarkR]

Usually you'll end up with more maintainable code by using associative arrays. Therefore I advise you to use them.

Mark

[lifeasalounge]

Thanks, thats exactly what i needed to know.