Why Is My Mamp Server Returning My Php Test Program Source Instead Of Executing It

I found this article here and I have started following the procedure: https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/build-basic-web-crawler-pull-information-website/

I did all OK when it comes to installing the server via MAMP and as a confirmation that it is working ok, I have installed WordPress locally and it is working fine.

The problem is here:

“Make a new file in your web directory, and call it example1.php – the actual name isn’t important, but the .php ending is. Copy and paste this code into it:

Access the file through your internet browser. If everything has gone right, you should see a big page of random debug and server information printed out like below "

When I do this all I get is the simple code in the file displayed on my browser.

How can I get rid of this? I need the code launched, not displayed!

So a quick recap: server is up and running, WordPress works perfectly locally but I can’t seem to have this php code work.

Any suggestions?

Thanks.

Vittorio