Functions · Lesson 4 of 9

Return Values

Return a result to the caller instead of only printing it.

Lesson

return ends a function and gives a value back to its caller. Returning data makes a function reusable in calculations, templates, and tests; echoing inside the function couples it to immediate output. Declare a return type when the result has a known shape. The caller decides how to display the computed value. Further guidance Treat a function as a small contract: name its inputs, state what it returns, and avoid hidden dependencies. Test a representative value and an edge case. Keep a function focused; callers should decide how to display a returned result or handle a reported failure. Practice task: Create a fresh example for Return Values. Predict the result before running it, then change one input and explain why the result changes. Test a normal case and one boundary or invalid case where it applies. Compare your output with the example and note one rule you would use in a real project.

Code examples

Return Values

PHP

function area(float $width, float $height): float
{
    return $width * $height;
}
echo area(4, 2);

Expected output

Key points

Return a result to the caller instead of only printing it.
Keep inputs, return values, and side effects explicit.
Prefer focused functions that are easy to test independently.

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