What alternative methods can be used to log data in PHP without using print_r() output in an array?

When logging data in PHP, using print_r() to output data in an array format may not be the most efficient or readable method. An alternative approach is to use the error_log() function in PHP, which allows you to log messages to the server's error log or a specified file. This method provides more flexibility in logging data and allows for better organization and customization of log messages.

// Log data using error_log() function
$data = ['key1' => 'value1', 'key2' => 'value2', 'key3' => 'value3'];
error_log("Logging data: " . json_encode($data));