How To Show Node Comment Count in node.tpl?

Question

I have had the bright idea of changing my user permissions so as guests cannot see the comments on a node. I have no problems with Views around my site, as they can clearly see there are comments on nodes, and they will be more inclined to register. The problem seems to be when they arrive on my site directly to a node, they don't see any comment, and think "that's a bit crap; let's go."

Is there a way I could show the amount of comments below a node?

Answer 1

I recommend you use template_preprocess_node(). A basic example in D6 is below, you can customize it to your liking. In your template.php file located in your theme directory, add something along the lines of (replacing YOURTHEME with the name of your theme):

function YOURTHEME_preprocess_node(&$variables) {
  $nid = $variables['node']->nid;
  $variables['num_comments'] = db_result(db_query('SELECT COUNT(cid) AS count FROM {comments} WHERE nid = %d', $nid)) . ' comment(s) on this node';
}

and save the file. Now in node.tpl.php (or any equivalent template, node-mycontenttype.tpl.php, etc) simply add:

<?php print $num_comments; ?>

Wherever you would like the comment count to be located and save. Clear the cache and then view your changes.

Answer 2

You can use $comment_count in node.tpl.php.

$type: Node type, i.e. story, page, blog, etc.
$comment_count: Number of comments attached to the node.