In PHP, what are some common methods for handling complex SQL queries that involve calculations or comparisons between multiple columns?

When dealing with complex SQL queries that involve calculations or comparisons between multiple columns, one common method is to use subqueries or temporary tables to break down the query into smaller, more manageable parts. This can help improve readability and maintainability of the code, as well as optimize performance by allowing the database to process the query in stages.

<?php
// Example of using subqueries to handle a complex SQL query in PHP

// Define the main query with a subquery to calculate a sum
$sql = "SELECT id, name, 
               (SELECT SUM(quantity) FROM orders WHERE orders.product_id = products.id) AS total_quantity
        FROM products";

// Execute the query and fetch the results
$result = $conn->query($sql);

if ($result->num_rows > 0) {
    while ($row = $result->fetch_assoc()) {
        echo "ID: " . $row["id"] . " - Name: " . $row["name"] . " - Total Quantity: " . $row["total_quantity"] . "<br>";
    }
} else {
    echo "0 results";
}

// Close the connection
$conn->close();
?>