How can the user improve their PHP coding practices to avoid similar errors in the future?

To improve PHP coding practices and avoid similar errors in the future, the user can follow best practices such as using proper variable naming conventions, commenting code effectively, and utilizing functions and classes for reusability. Additionally, they should regularly test their code and use debugging tools to catch errors early on.

// Example of improved PHP coding practices
<?php

// Proper variable naming conventions
$firstName = "John";
$lastName = "Doe";

// Commenting code effectively
// Calculate the sum of two numbers
$sum = 5 + 10;

// Utilizing functions for reusability
function calculateSum($num1, $num2) {
    return $num1 + $num2;
}

// Testing code and using debugging tools
$number1 = 15;
$number2 = 20;
$result = calculateSum($number1, $number2);
echo "The sum of $number1 and $number2 is: $result";

?>