What is the correct & common way to start and finish a PHP block of code?

The two most common ways to start and finish a PHP script are:

  1. Using standard tags: <?php PHP Code here ?>
  2. Using short tags: <? PHP Code here ?>

Example 1: Using standard tags:

This is the recommended way.

<?php
echo "I love PHP";
?>

Example 2: Using short tags:

This method is not supported by all server (depending on the PHP configuration), so always use first method.

<?
echo "I love PHP";
?>

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