WHEN to use serialize vs just regular POST
jquery, php
Solution
The .serialize() method creates a text string in standard URL-encoded notation. It operates on a jQuery object representing a set of form elements. The form elements can be of several types. Read more.
`.serialize()` is used when you are sending data through an AJAX request. It's the same as submitting a form using a submit button. Only difference it when you use AJAX it does not refresh the page. That's why you get the same results even though you submit the form using a submit button or `.serialize()` when using AJAX.
.serializeArray() would be an alternative to `.serialize()`.
Remember if you don't use `.serialize()` you have to create your key-value pairs manually as @Akam mentioned in the comment above.
And finally
When to use serialize <-- When you use AJAX to post data
When regular POST <-- When you use submit button to post data
Problem
I recently asked a question that was partially answered but I was hoping someone could explain this a little clearer. Its regarding PHP and the serialize function. So I have a form with 12 fields, all with names. Traditionally I would just use the POST method, send them to a PHP page and then supply them into a database. Today I stumbled upon the serialize method but after using it, it seems like it doesnt do anything that a regular POST statement would do. For example, if I wanted to use serialize, I would do the following: ``` var formData = $('#contForm').serialize(); $.post('functs.php',formData,dispAdd); ``` Then to print a value I would use ``` echo $_POST['value_name'] ``` What I see happening is that with or without the serialize, I get the same results. Am I missing something here?