How can beginners in PHP ensure they are using best practices when outputting dates?

Beginners in PHP can ensure they are using best practices when outputting dates by using the date() function along with the DateTime class to format dates properly. It is important to set the correct timezone and handle date and time calculations accurately to avoid any inconsistencies or errors in date output. 

// Set the timezone
date_default_timezone_set('America/New_York');

// Get the current date and time
$currentDate = new DateTime();
echo $currentDate->format('Y-m-d H:i:s');

Keywords

date formatting PHP date function DateTime class timezone handling date validation

Related Questions