What are the differences between using $_GET and $_POST in PHP form actions, and when should each be used?

When submitting form data in PHP, the main differences between using $_GET and $_POST are how the data is sent and how it is visible in the URL. $_GET sends data through the URL, making it visible and limit the amount of data that can be sent, while $_POST sends data through the HTTP request body, keeping it hidden and allowing for larger amounts of data to be sent. Generally, $_GET is used for retrieving data, such as search queries, while $_POST is used for submitting sensitive information, such as passwords. 

// Example of using $_GET in a form action
<form action="process.php" method="get">
  <input type="text" name="search_query">
  <input type="submit" value="Submit">
</form>

// Example of using $_POST in a form action
<form action="process.php" method="post">
  <input type="text" name="username">
  <input type="password" name="password">
  <input type="submit" value="Submit">
</form>

Keywords

$_GET $_POST PHP form actions differences when to use

Related Questions