How to Choose the Correct `date()` Format for MySQL's `datetime` Columns?

Preserving Temporal Precision: Choosing the Correct date() Format for MySQL's datetime Columns

Inserting a date value into a MySQL datetime column from PHP requires adhering to a specific format to ensure accurate representation. The date() function in PHP provides flexibility for formatting dates and times, but it's essential to match the expected format for the datetime type in MySQL.

One common issue that arises is the insertion of incorrect data into datetime columns using the format 'Y-M-D G:i:s'. This often results in the insertion of the default value "0000-00-00 00:00:00".

The key to resolving this issue lies in understanding the format expected by MySQL's datetime type. MySQL expects dates in the form of 'YYYY-MM-DD HH:MM:SS'. Therefore, the correct format to use with the date() function is 'Y-m-d H:i:s'.

Here's an example:

$datetime_string = date('Y-m-d H:i:s');

By using the correct format, you ensure that the date value inserted into the datetime column will be recognized and stored accurately. This will prevent the insertion of default values and ensure the integrity of your database data.

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