mysql_fetch_row(), mysql_fetch_assoc(), and mysql_fetch_array() Explained

Background:
If you're working with the deprecated MySQL extension, you may encounter confusion when choosing between mysql_fetch_row(), mysql_fetch_assoc(), and mysql_fetch_array() functions for retrieving data from a result set. This article clarifies the differences between these three functions to help you make an informed decision.

Purpose:
All three functions aim to return an array representing a single row from a result set. However, their output differs primarily in how the values are assigned to array keys.

Differences:

1. mysql_fetch_row()

• Returns a row as a numeric array.
• Array keys are assigned sequentially, starting from 0.
• The order of values corresponds to the column order defined in the SQL query.

2. mysql_fetch_assoc()

• Returns a row as an associative array.
• Array keys are set to the column names.
• Values are assigned based on column names, allowing easy extraction using the column's name.

3. mysql_fetch_array()

• Returns a row as an array that combines the features of mysql_fetch_row() and mysql_fetch_assoc().
• Array keys include both numeric and string keys.
• It provides the flexibility to access values using either column names or numeric indices.

Usage Recommendation:**

• For direct access to values by column order, use mysql_fetch_row().
• To access values by column name, use mysql_fetch_assoc().
• If you want the flexibility of both numeric and string keys, use mysql_fetch_array().

Please note that the mysql_* functions are deprecated and it's recommended to use alternative MySQL APIs like MySQLi or PDO for better security and functionality.