Salesforce Platform Developer 1 Certification Guide 2024

Salesforce is becoming a crucial tool for companies worldwide, creating a high demand for professionals adept at navigating its platform. The Platform Developer I certification is perfect for those interested in crafting custom applications using Salesforce. Opting for this certification is a wise move for several reasons, benefiting your career path significantly:

• Enhancing Abilities: This certification sharpens your skills in developing custom applications on Salesforce, preparing you for significant roles in tech-driven business environments.
• Meeting Market Needs: It fulfills the growing demand for experts capable of creating tailored solutions on Salesforce’s extensive platform.
• Advancing Your Career: Earning this certification is a testament to your dedication to enhancing your app development skills on Salesforce.

Let’s delve into how you can obtain this certification and the positive effects it will have on your professional growth.

About the Salesforce Platform Developer 1  Certification

The Salesforce Platform Developer I certification is designed for those who are proficient in creating custom applications using the Lightning Platform. This certification highlights your ability to use the core programming features of the Lightning Platform, enabling you to develop bespoke business logic and user interfaces. This involves extending Salesforce’s capabilities through the use of Apex, Visualforce, and Lightning Components. 

To earn this prestigious credential, you must clear the Salesforce Platform Developer I examination. This exam not only demonstrates your expertise but also serves as a stepping stone towards the more advanced Salesforce Platform Developer II Multiple Choice exam. Gaining this certification is a testament to your dedication and skill in leveraging Salesforce to craft tailored solutions, setting you apart in the competitive tech industry. It’s an excellent way to validate your skills and open up new opportunities for career advancement.

Who’s the Ideal Candidate?

The Salesforce Platform Developer I certification is designed for individuals passionate about coding and customizing the Lightning Platform. It suits those aiming to demonstrate their expertise in creating tailored Salesforce solutions.

Experience Requirements

• Development Background: 1-2 years of experience in development, with a minimum of six months specifically on the Lightning Platform.
• Study Commitment: Dedication to studying the materials outlined in the exam guide.

Key Qualifications

• Data Management Insight: Familiarity with the principles of data-driven applications and the workings of relational databases.
• Coding Skills: Proficient in using object-oriented programming languages such as Apex, JavaScript, Java, C#, and Ruby.
• Understanding Governor Limits: Awareness of Salesforce’s governor limits and their implications for development projects.
• Understanding of Architectural Principles: Knowledge of Model View Controller (MVC) and component-oriented structures.
• Salesforce Schema Savvy: Awareness of the capabilities of core Salesforce objects, formula fields, and roll-up summary fields.
• Declarative vs. Programmatic: Ability to discern when to use declarative methods and when to apply programmatic solutions.
• Apex Expertise: Competence in using Apex for customizing Salesforce and extending the platform with basic Lightning Components and Visualforce.
• Programmatic Capabilities: Skill in developing custom interfaces and business logic using the platform’s programmatic features.
• Experience in Testing and Deployment: Skilled in examining, troubleshooting, and implementing code in Salesforce settings.

How to Get Salesforce Platform Developer I Certification?

1. Creating Your Webassessor Account

Start your certification journey by setting up an account on Webassessor, the hub for Salesforce certifications.

2. Signing Up for the Exam

Once you have your webassessor account, log in and register for the Salesforce Platform Developer I exam.

3. Choosing Your Exam Carefully

Ensure you select the correct exam by paying attention to the exam codes and the languages it’s offered in.

4. Scheduling Your Exam

Choose a convenient date and time for your exam. You can opt to take it either online or at a designated test center.

5. Making Your Payment

Finalize your exam registration by processing the payment for the exam fee.

6. Preparing for the Exam

Dedicate time to understanding and practicing with the Salesforce Lightning Platform, focusing on its programming aspects and capabilities to build custom applications.

Salesforce PD 1 Exam Pattern

Salesforce Platform Developer 1 Certification Syllabus

The Salesforce Platform Developer I examination is designed to assess your expertise in crafting custom apps on the Lightning Platform, covering various critical domains:

Developer Basics (23%)

• Grasp the fundamentals of operating in multi-tenant environments and the principles of MVC (Model-View-Controller) architecture.
• Distinguish between programmatic and declarative customizations, understanding when to use each approach effectively.

Process Automation and Logic (30%)

• Demonstrate advanced knowledge in utilizing Apex for automating processes, manipulating data, and applying complex logic to solve problems.

User Interface Development (25%)

• Show your capability in designing and managing intuitive user interfaces using Visualforce and Lightning Components, enhancing user experience.

Testing, Debugging, and Application Deployment (22%)

• Exhibit proficiency in ensuring the reliability and performance of custom applications through thorough testing and debugging.
• Understand the best practices for deploying these applications successfully.

This test thoroughly evaluates your skills in managing the Lightning Platform, demanding a solid grasp of both the underlying principles and their real-world uses.

Preparing for the Salesforce Platform Developer 1 Certification Exam

Leverage Salesforce Resources

• Trailhead Learning: Kick off your prep with the specific learning path for Platform Developer I on Trailhead to target your studies effectively.
• Official Study Materials: Dive deep into the core topics with Salesforce’s own study guides.
• Practice Tests: Consistent use of practice exams aids in getting used to the test structure and variety of questions.

Expand Your Learning

• Online Learning Platforms: Enhance your knowledge by exploring courses on platforms like Udemy, and Coursera tailored to the Platform Developer I certification.
• Bootcamps and Community Groups: Engage in Salesforce developer bootcamps and connect with the Salesforce Trailblazer Community for valuable insights and networking opportunities.
• Blogs and Forums: Utilize the Trailhead community’s blogs and forums for additional learning resources, tips, and experiences shared by fellow aspirants.

Adopt Effective Study Strategies

• Structured Study Plan: Maintain a consistent study schedule to ensure comprehensive coverage of all necessary topics.
• Diverse Study Techniques: Employ a variety of study methods to deepen your understanding and retention of the material.
• Structured Study Materials: Ensure your revision notes are neatly arranged for easy access during study sessions.
• Frequent Practice Tests: Build exam readiness and boost your confidence by taking practice tests regularly.

Incorporating these strategies and resources will equip you with a well-rounded preparation for taking the Salesforce Platform Developer I certification exam.

Conclusion

Starting your journey towards achieving the Platform Developer I certification is a smart move for anyone eager to deepen their expertise in Salesforce development. This certification does more than showcase your technical skills; it significantly raises your profile in the tech community. With the insights provided here, you have a clear understanding of the exam’s format, the topics covered, and the best strategies for preparation.

Going for this certification is about more than just acing a test; it’s about building a solid base for ongoing development and grabbing new chances within the ever-evolving Salesforce world. By kicking off your preparation now, you’re not just broadening your knowledge but also investing in the future of your career. This certification will open doors to new pathways and prospects for growth, enriching your professional path. So, begin your studies with vigor and optimism, prepared to embrace the opportunities that lie ahead in the Salesforce community.

Salesforce offers more than 41 certifications: Explore the list of Salesforce certifications available to identify the best trajectory for your professional growth.

Also, Read on – Salesforce Platform Developer 2 Certification

Authored by Prateek Kataria

CPO at an Edtech Platform, holds 18 Salesforce certifications and is dedicated to enhancing young professionals’ careers. His focus on keeping audiences up-to-date with the latest in Salesforce reflects his dedication to nurturing the next generation of professionals. His leadership is marked by a profound understanding of Salesforce’s capabilities and how they can be leveraged to foster innovation and skill development. LinkedIn