How can PHP scripts be optimized for better readability and efficiency, especially when dealing with complex database operations?

To optimize PHP scripts for better readability and efficiency, especially when dealing with complex database operations, you can use prepared statements to prevent SQL injection, properly structure your code with functions or classes, minimize the number of database queries, and use indexes on frequently accessed columns.

// Example of using prepared statements to optimize database operations
$pdo = new PDO("mysql:host=localhost;dbname=mydatabase", "username", "password");

// Prepare the statement
$stmt = $pdo->prepare("SELECT * FROM users WHERE username = :username");

// Bind parameters
$stmt->bindParam(':username', $username, PDO::PARAM_STR);

// Execute the statement
$stmt->execute();

// Fetch results
$results = $stmt->fetchAll(PDO::FETCH_ASSOC);

// Loop through results
foreach ($results as $row) {
    // Process each row
}