What is the difference between using isset() and checking for actual input when validating form fields in PHP?

When validating form fields in PHP, using isset() checks if a variable is set and not null, while checking for actual input verifies if the input is not empty. It is important to use both methods when validating form fields to ensure that the input is both set and contains actual data.

// Using isset() and checking for actual input when validating form fields
if(isset($_POST['field_name']) && !empty($_POST['field_name'])) {
    // Field is set and contains actual input
    $field_value = $_POST['field_name'];
    // Further validation or processing can be done here
} else {
    // Field is not set or empty, handle the error accordingly
    echo "Field is required.";
}