How do arrow functions improve code readability in PHP 7.4?

Arrow functions in `PHP 7.4` significantly improve code readability by providing a more concise and expressive syntax for simple, single-expression anonymous functions. Here’s how they enhance readability:

• Concise Syntax: Arrow functions use the `fn` keyword and do not require a return statement or curly braces. This makes them much shorter than traditional anonymous functions, reducing visual clutter and making the intent of the code clearer-especially for simple operations.

// Traditional closure
$squared = array_map(function($n) { return $n * $n; }, [1, 2, 3]);

// Arrow function
$squared = array_map(fn($n) => $n * $n, [1, 2, 3]);

• Automatic Scope Inheritance: Arrow functions automatically inherit variables from the parent scope, eliminating the need for the use keyword. This reduces boilerplate and potential confusion, making code easier to follow.

$factor = 10;
// Traditional closure
$calc = function($num) use ($factor) { return $num * $factor; };
// Arrow function
$calc = fn($num) => $num * $factor;

• Cleaner for Functional Programming: Arrow functions are ideal for functional programming patterns like `array_map`, `array_filter`, and `array_reduce`, where the logic is typically a single expression. This leads to code that is both shorter and easier to scan.

$names = ['alex', 'john', null, 'michael'];
$validNames = array_filter($names, fn($name) => !is_null($name));
$capitalizedNames = array_map(fn($name) => ucfirst($name), $validNames);

• Enhanced Maintainability: By reducing verbosity, arrow functions make it easier to spot the core logic, which helps with code reviews and long-term maintenance.

In summary, arrow functions in `PHP 7.4` let you write less code for simple tasks, making your codebase cleaner, more readable, and easier to maintain