How can SQL queries be optimized to handle large datasets in PHP applications?

To optimize SQL queries for large datasets in PHP applications, you can consider using indexes on columns frequently used in WHERE clauses, limiting the number of columns selected, and using pagination to retrieve data in smaller chunks.

// Example of optimizing SQL query with indexes and pagination
$query = "SELECT * FROM large_table WHERE column_name = :value LIMIT :offset, :limit";
$stmt = $pdo->prepare($query);
$stmt->bindParam(':value', $value, PDO::PARAM_STR);
$stmt->bindParam(':offset', $offset, PDO::PARAM_INT);
$stmt->bindParam(':limit', $limit, PDO::PARAM_INT);
$stmt->execute();
$results = $stmt->fetchAll(PDO::FETCH_ASSOC);