Salesforce Platform Developer 1 Certification Syllabus

The Salesforce Certified Platform Developer 1 certification is designed for individuals with knowledge, skills, and experience building personalized applications on the Lightning Platform.

This certification covers the Lightning Platform’s basic programmatic capabilities for creating custom business logic and interfaces to expand Salesforce using Apex, Visualforce, and Lightning Components. To achieve this, a candidate must pass the Salesforce Platform Developer I test. The Salesforce Platform Developer I Multiple Choice test is also a prerequisite for the Salesforce Platform Developer II Multiple Choice exam.

Salesforce Platform Developer 1 Exam Overview

This exam is intended to assist you in determining whether you are prepared to pass the Salesforce Platform Developer I exam. To increase your chances of passing the exam, Salesforce suggests combining on-the-job experience, course participation, and self-study. Check out our Salesforce Platform Developer 1 Preparation Guide.

Updated Syllabus for Salesforce Platform Developer 1

The Salesforce Platform Developer 1 exam assesses the candidates knowledge and abilities in the areas listed below. The exam outline includes four modules, and the percentage of questions asked varies from each module.

Developer Fundamentals: 23%

• Understand multi-tenant concepts and design frameworks, such as MVC architecture and Lightning Component Framework.
• Given a scenario, identify common use cases and best practices for declarative versus programmatic customizations, including governor limits, formula fields, and roll-up summaries.
• Given a scenario, determine, create, and access the appropriate data model, including objects, fields, relationships, and external IDs.
• Given a scenario, identify the options and considerations when importing and exporting data into development environments.

Process Automation and Logic – 30%

• Identify the capabilities of the declarative process automation features.
• Declare variables, constants, methods, and use modifiers and Apex interfaces.
• Given a scenario, use and apply Apex control flow statements.
• Given a scenario, write SOSL, SOQL, and DML statements in Apex.
• Given a scenario, follow best practices to write Apex classes and triggers.
• Given a scenario, identify the implications of governor limits on Apex transactions.
• Describe the relationship between Apex transactions, the save order of execution, and the potential for recursion and/or cascading.
• Implement exception handling in Apex, including custom exceptions as needed.
• Given a scenario, use declarative functionality and Apex together to automate business logic.

User Interface– 25%

• Given a scenario, display content or modify Salesforce data using a Visualforce page and the appropriate controllers or extensions as needed.
• Describe the Lightning Component framework, its benefits, and the types of content that can be contained in a Lightning web component.
• Given a scenario, prevent user interface and data access security vulnerabilities.
• Given a scenario, display and use custom user interface components, including Lightning Components, Flow, and Visualforce.
• Describe the use cases and best practices for Lightning Web Component events.
• Given a scenario, implement Apex to work with various types of page components, including Lightning Components, Flow, Next Best Actions, etc.

Testing, Debugging, and Deployment – 22%

• Write and execute tests for triggers, controllers, classes, flows, and processes using various sources of test data.
• Given a scenario, know how and when to use the Salesforce Developer tools such as Salesforce DX, Salesforce CLI, and Developer Console.
• Describe how to approach debugging system issues, monitoring flows, processes, asynchronous and batch jobs, etc.
• Describe the environments, requirements, and process for deploying code and associated configurations.

Click here for the ultimate platform developer 1 study guide – explore the updated PD1 exam syllabus, exam pattern, certification cost, registration & preparation tips.

Tips for Passing the Salesforce Platform Developer 1 Certification Exam

1. Understand the Exam Blueprint Inside Out

• Detailed Preparation: Start by thoroughly reviewing the exam guide and syllabus. Break down the weightage for each section, such as Process Automation and Logic (30%) and User Interface (25%), and allocate study time accordingly. Make sure you fully understand the concepts in each domain before moving forward.
• Focus on Key Areas: As the highest percentage of questions come from Process Automation and Logic, prioritize this area. Study Apex coding, SOQL queries, and governor limits to ace this portion.

2. Leverage Salesforce Documentation and Trailhead Modules

• Use Official Salesforce Resources: Salesforce provides a wealth of documentation for developers. Study the Apex Developer Guide and Visualforce Developer Guide to build a strong foundation. These guides offer in-depth explanations of coding best practices, data models, and platform-specific features.
• Complete Relevant Trailhead Modules: Trailhead offers hands-on learning with interactive modules. Focus on completing relevant badges in areas like Apex Basics & Database, Visualforce Pages, and Lightning Web Components. Engage with the scenario-based challenges to test your problem-solving abilities.

3. Hands-on Practice is Key

• Create Real-World Applications: To solidify your learning, work on small projects using your Salesforce Developer Org. Build custom objects, write triggers, and create Visualforce pages or Lightning components. This hands-on practice will help you understand how to apply theoretical concepts in a practical setting.
• Write Custom Code: Develop basic programs in Apex and learn how to avoid common mistakes like exceeding governor limits. By writing and debugging your own code, you’ll be more confident in tackling exam questions that involve writing Apex triggers, SOQL queries, and DML operations.

4. Don’t Skip Mock Exams and Practice Tests

• Use Mock Exams Strategically: Mock exams are essential for measuring your readiness. Use platforms like SaaSguru to access well-designed practice tests that simulate real exam conditions. Pay attention to the types of questions being asked and practice managing your time to ensure you can complete all 60 questions in the 105-minute timeframe.
• Analyze Your Weak Areas: After taking each mock exam, review the questions you got wrong and focus on improving those areas. For example, if you struggle with Lightning Components or Apex error handling, revisit those concepts through additional study or practice.

5. Master Debugging and Deployment Skills

• Debugging: Know how to use Salesforce Developer Tools, like Salesforce DX, Developer Console, and Salesforce CLI. Be familiar with common debugging processes for flows, processes, and batch jobs. Understanding these tools will help you in real-world scenarios and prepare you for questions related to debugging and system issues.
• Deployment Knowledge: Make sure you understand the different environments and deployment processes in Salesforce. Topics like metadata API, change sets, and using Salesforce DX for scratch orgs should be part of your study plan.

6. Learn by Joining the Salesforce Community

• Engage in the Trailblazer Community: Salesforce’s Trailblazer Community is an invaluable resource. Join study groups and participate in discussions to clarify doubts and share knowledge with others who are preparing for the exam.
• Follow Salesforce Developer Forums: Keep up with forums like Salesforce Stack Exchange for solutions to common coding problems and advice from seasoned developers. You can also learn about new Salesforce features and updates that may appear on the exam.

7. Develop a Study Schedule and Stick to It

• Break Your Study Sessions into Sprints: Devote 1-2 weeks to each major domain, such as Logic & Process Automation and Testing, Debugging, & Deployment. By focusing on one section at a time, you can go deeper into the material and retain more information.
• Balance Theory and Practice: Don’t get stuck in only theoretical study. After learning a concept (like writing Apex triggers), spend time implementing it in your developer org. This will help cement your understanding and prepare you for practical, scenario-based exam questions.

8. Stay Updated on Salesforce Releases

• • Follow Salesforce Release Notes: Salesforce frequently updates its platform, and new features or modifications could be tested on the certification exam. Always review the Salesforce Release Notes to stay informed about any changes to the platform, especially around Lightning Components or new Apex functionalities.
  • Practice New Features: After a Salesforce update, experiment with new features in your developer org to gain a practical understanding of what has changed. This proactive approach will also help in your future career as a developer.

Summing Up

Once you have signed up for Salesforce Developer PD1 Certification course with saasguru and you feel confident of the materials you possess, you can carefully structure your study schedule and revise thoroughly. It’s advised to take as many mock exams as possible with saasguru, and brush up on the areas that you are weak at. This ensures that you pass your certification examinations with flying colours,

Fast-track your Salesforce career with our Salesforce Platform Developer 1 training program with capstone projects.

Also read – Salesforce Platform Developer 1 Certification Maintenance Guide

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How do I prepare for the Salesforce Developer exam?

Follow the exam instructions and take as many practice tests as possible to prepare for the Salesforce platform developer 1 certification exam. Pick a saasguru certification training program after completing the Trailhead modules and attempt mock tests. Give the exam after you’re confident that you’ve covered all essential topics.

2. Which topics are included in the Platform Developer 1 exam?

The topics included in the Platform Developer 1 exam are:

• Salesforce Fundamentals 7%
• Data Modelling and Management 13%
• Logic and Process Automation 40%
• User Interface 23%
• Testing, debugging and Deployment Tools 17%

3. How many questions are there in the Salesforce PD1 exam?

The total number of questions in the Salesforce Platform Developer 1 exam is 60.

4. How hard is the Platform Developer 1 certification?

The Salesforce Platform Developer 1 certification is considered intermediate in difficulty. It requires a foundational understanding of the Salesforce platform, knowledge of Apex and Visualforce, and the ability to build custom applications using the Lightning platform.

5. What are the best resources for preparing for the Salesforce Platform Developer 1 Certification exam?

Some of the best resources include:

• Salesforce’s official Trailhead modules.
• The official Salesforce Platform Developer 1 study guide.
• Practice exams and mock tests.
• Online forums and communities like Salesforce Stack Exchange.
• Training programs like those offered by saasguru.

6. What is the difficulty level of the Salesforce Platform Developer 1 Certification exam?

The exam is of intermediate difficulty. It assesses foundational concepts but also dives deeper into specific topics like Apex, Visualforce, and the Lightning platform.

7. What are the job prospects for Salesforce Platform Developer 1 certified professionals?

Salesforce continues to be a leading CRM, and there’s a growing demand for professionals skilled in its customization and development. A Salesforce Platform Developer 1 certified professional can find roles as Salesforce Developers, Salesforce Technical Consultants, and even move into Architect roles with further certifications and experience.

8. What are the prerequisites for the Salesforce Platform Developer 1 Certification exam?

There are no strict prerequisites in terms of prior certifications for the Platform Developer 1 exam. However, Salesforce recommends hands-on experience and familiarity with the platform, as well as a grasp of the skills and knowledge areas outlined in the exam guide.

9. How can I improve my chances of passing the Salesforce Platform Developer 1 Certification exam?

To improve your chances:

• Dedicate sufficient time to study and practice on the Salesforce platform.
• Complete relevant Trailhead modules.
• Engage in hands-on exercises and projects.
• Take multiple practice exams to familiarize yourself with the type and style of questions.
• Join study groups or online communities to discuss difficult topics.

10. What are the common mistakes that people make on the Salesforce Platform Developer 1 exam?

Common mistakes include:

• Not reading questions carefully, leading to misinterpretation.
• Not spending enough time on hands-on practice, which can result in a lack of understanding of practical application.
• Over-relying on memorization instead of understanding concepts.
• Not managing time well during the exam, causing some questions to be rushed or skipped.
• Not reviewing or staying updated with the latest Salesforce releases and updates.