Laravel - Return multiple values within one method
Stefan Bogdanescu
Founder & Senior Architect · 2026-06-29
Title: Laravel - Return Multiple Values within One Method
Introduction
In Laravel, it is common to have multiple methods that perform similar tasks, leading developers to explore ways of consolidating these functions into a single method. In this article, we will discuss how to return multiple values within one method, providing code examples and best practices.
The Challenge: Duplicate Code Blocks for Similar Queries
You currently have two functions - totalOfA() and totalOfB() - that both query the same table based on a specific condition (user_id and 'category' equal to either 'a' or 'b'). They both sum the qty values from the filtered results. You are looking for a way to combine these queries into one function, making it easier to call in your view templates.
The Solution: Combining Queries with Laravel Collection Methods
To achieve this, we can leverage Laravel's collection methods and create a single totalStocks() method that returns both sum values as an array. The process involves the following steps:
Step 1: Retrieve all stocks for the current user
Use Stocks::where('user_id', '=', $this->employee->id)->get() to fetch all stocks associated with the logged-in user. This step will make subsequent filtering and calculations easier.
Step 2: Filter and Sum Quantities Based on Category 'a'
Now that we have all the stocks, we can use the Laravel collection method to filter by category: $stocks::where('category', '=', 'a')->pluck('qty')->sum(). This line of code will sum up all quantity values for category 'a'.
Step 3: Filter and Sum Quantities Based on Category 'b'
Similar to the previous step, we can add another filtering and summing process for category 'b': $stocks::where('category', '=', 'b')->pluck('qty')->sum().
Step 4: Combine Both Values into a Single Array
Finally, we'll combine both values to return an array containing the total quantities for categories 'a' and 'b'.
```php
public function totalStocks()
{
$stocks = Stocks::where('user_id', '=', $this->employee->id)->get();
$a = $stocks::where('category', '=', 'a')->pluck('qty')->sum();
$b = $stocks::where('category', '=', 'b')->pluck('qty')->sum();
return [$a, $b];
}
```
Using the New Function to Call Total Quantities
With these changes, you can call the new totalStocks() method from your view templates:
```php
@foreach (totalStocks() as $quantity)
// Render specific quantity values for categories 'a' and 'b' here
@endforeach
```
Conclusion
By combining similar tasks into a single function, you improve the maintainability and readability of your code. With this approach, you can return multiple values from one method, making it easier to access and use them in your view templates or other parts of your application. Always remember to refactor whenever possible to ensure efficient and clean coding practices.