title: PHP array vs [ ] in method and variable declaration
body: <p>I have a question about PHP syntax.</p>
  
  <p>When defining functions and variables, which convention should I use?</p>
  
  <p>I know they do the same thing in practice but I would like to know which method conforms to best practice standards.</p>
  
  <p><strong>Variables</strong></p>
  
  <pre><code>public $varname = array();
  </code></pre>
  
  <p>or</p>
  
  <pre><code>public $varname = [];
  </code></pre>
  
  <p><strong>Methods</strong></p>
  
  <pre><code>public function foo($bar = array()){}
  </code></pre>
  
  <p>or</p>
  
  <pre><code>public function foo($bar = []){}
  </code></pre>