PHP SplHeap::insert() Method: Usage and Examples

Adds an element and reorders the heap to preserve its priority invariant.

The examples focus on the operation itself, including the important distinction: extract removes the highest-ranked element.

What It Does

Use the examples below to observe the behavior on a small dataset before extending it to application code.

Syntax and Return Value

SplHeap::insert(mixed $value)

The displayed signature describes the API or identifies any correction or optional dependency. When a parameter is optional, supply it only when the task requires it.

Parameters

• value: required.

Example 1: Basic Use

SplMaxHeap is used because the abstract SplHeap cannot be instantiated. The insert call is shown on a small, inspectable dataset.

<?php
$heap = new SplMaxHeap();
$heap->insert(4);
$heap->insert(12);
$heap->insert(7);
$heap->insert(17);
echo json_encode($heap->top());

Output from a successful local PHP 8.4 run:

17

Example 2: Checking Behavior

SplMaxHeap is used because the abstract SplHeap cannot be instantiated. The insert call is shown on a small, inspectable dataset.

<?php
$heap = new SplMaxHeap();
$heap->insert(2);
$heap->insert(9);
$heap->insert(5);
$heap->insert(1);
$heap->insert(18);
echo json_encode($heap->top());

Output from a successful local PHP 8.4 run:

18

Example 3: Practical Example

SplMaxHeap is used because the abstract SplHeap cannot be instantiated. The insert call is shown on a small, inspectable dataset.

<?php
$heap = new SplMaxHeap();
$heap->insert(19);
$heap->insert(3);
$heap->insert(11);
$heap->insert(19);
echo json_encode($heap->top());

Output from a successful local PHP 8.4 run:

19

Important Behavior and Edge Cases

Return is true; insertion order is not preserved as a general guarantee.

Comparison with Related Approaches

Common Beginner Mistakes

Key Takeaways

• Adds an element and reorders the heap to preserve its priority invariant.
• Return is true; insertion order is not preserved as a general guarantee.
• extract removes the highest-ranked element.

Use SplHeap::insert when its documented behavior matches the problem. Test the relevant edge cases in your own runtime before deploying it.