How can a PHP beginner improve their understanding of code snippets and adapt them to their specific requirements without relying solely on copy-pasting?

To improve understanding and adapt code snippets, a PHP beginner can start by breaking down the code line by line, researching unfamiliar functions or syntax, and experimenting with small changes to see how it affects the output. Additionally, they can practice writing their own code from scratch to reinforce their learning and gradually build up their skills.

// Example code snippet to demonstrate adapting and understanding code
// Original code snippet
$number = 5;
$result = $number * 2;

// Adapted code snippet
$number = 10; // Changed the value of $number
$result = $number + 5; // Changed the operation to addition

echo $result; // Output: 15