Can you create a new Model instance without saving it to the database

Question

I want to create a whole bunch of instances of a model object in Laravel, then pick the optimal instance and save it to the database. I know that I can create an instance with Model::create([]), but that saves to the database. If possible I'd like to create a bunch of models, then only "create" the one that is best.

Is this possible?

I am using Laravel 5.0

Answer 1

You create a new model simply by instantiating it:

$model = new Model; 

You can then save it to the database at a later stage:

$model->save(); 

Answer 2

You can create instances with Model::make(). It works the same way as create but it doesn't save it.

Whether or not this is best practice is another matter entirely.