How can PHP beginners avoid creating code that is difficult to read and understand?

To avoid creating code that is difficult to read and understand, PHP beginners should follow best practices such as using meaningful variable names, commenting their code, breaking down complex tasks into smaller functions, and following a consistent coding style.

// Example of well-formatted PHP code
function calculateTotal($price, $quantity) {
    $total = $price * $quantity;
    return $total;
}

$price = 10;
$quantity = 5;
$total = calculateTotal($price, $quantity);
echo "Total price: $total";