How can using meaningful variable names and proper formatting improve the readability and maintainability of PHP code?

Using meaningful variable names and proper formatting can improve the readability and maintainability of PHP code by making it easier for other developers (or even yourself in the future) to understand the purpose of each variable and function. Clear variable names can also reduce the chances of errors and make debugging more efficient. Proper formatting, such as indentation and consistent spacing, can make the code structure more clear and easier to follow.

// Bad variable names and formatting
$a = 10; $b = 20; $c = $a + $b; echo $c;

// Good variable names and formatting
$firstNumber = 10;
$secondNumber = 20;
$sum = $firstNumber + $secondNumber;
echo $sum;