How can the ob_start() function be utilized to manipulate the placement of included files in PHP?

When including files in PHP, the order in which they are included can sometimes affect the output or functionality of the script. One way to manipulate the placement of included files is by using the ob_start() function to buffer the output before including the files. This allows you to capture the output and manipulate it before sending it to the browser.

<?php
ob_start();

// Include files in the desired order
include 'file1.php';
include 'file2.php';
include 'file3.php';

// Get the buffered output
$output = ob_get_clean();

// Manipulate the output if needed
$output = str_replace('foo', 'bar', $output);

// Send the manipulated output to the browser
echo $output;
?>