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    How to Prepare for the Certified Platform Developer 1 Certification Exam

    Vivek K.By Vivek K.5 Mins Read
    Certified Platform Developer 1 Certification

    If you’re passionate about becoming a Salesforce developer, the Certified Platform Developer 1 Certification (PD1) is your first major milestone.. This certification validates your ability to build custom applications on the Salesforce Platform using Apex, Visualforce, and the Lightning Component Framework.

    In this blog, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know to prepare effectively, from understanding the exam structure to tips and resources. Whether you’re just starting or brushing up on your skills, this article will help you get started.

    Understanding the Salesforce Platform Developer 1 Certification

    The Salesforce Platform Developer 1 Certification is designed for individuals with foundational knowledge and experience in building custom applications on the Lightning Platform. It validates your ability to use programmatic tools like Apex, Visualforce, and Lightning Web Components to create scalable and efficient business solutions within Salesforce.

    This credential tests your understanding of core development concepts and ability to design custom logic and interfaces extending Salesforce’s out-of-the-box capabilities. Earning this certification demonstrates your skills and serves as a stepping stone toward more advanced credentials, such as the Salesforce Platform Developer II Multiple Choice exam, for which it is a prerequisite.

    Certified Platform Developer 1 Certification: Exam Overview

    Before diving into your preparation journey, it’s important to understand the structure and key details of the Salesforce Platform Developer 1 Certification exam.

    Here’s what you can expect:

    • Number of Questions: 60 multiple-choice or multiple-select questions, with up to 5 unscored questions for evaluation purposes
    • Time Limit: 105 minutes to complete the full exam
    • Passing Score: 68% is required to pass
    • Exam Fee: $ 200 (plus applicable local taxes)
    • Retake Fee: $ 100 (plus taxes if applicable)

    This certification exam is designed to test your knowledge of core development concepts on the Salesforce Platform, so be sure to review each section of the exam guide carefully and allocate your study time accordingly.

    Platform Developer 1 Certification: Detailed Exam Outline

    To help you focus your study efforts, Salesforce provides a clear exam outline for the Platform Developer 1 Certification. This outline breaks down the key knowledge areas and their corresponding weight in the exam, so you know exactly what to prioritize.

    Here’s a simplified and human-friendly breakdown of each section:

    • Developer Fundamentals – 23%

    This section tests your understanding of core architectural concepts and Salesforce’s multi-tenant environment. You’ll need to be familiar with:

    • MVC architecture and Lightning Component Framework
    • Use cases for declarative vs programmatic customizations (think: formula fields, roll-up summaries, governor limits)
    • Creating and managing data models — including objects, fields, relationships, and external IDs
    • Import/export tools and best practices for moving data between environments

    • Process Automation and Logic – 30%

    The most heavily weighted section in the exam focuses on automating business processes through Apex and declarative tools. Expect to be tested on:

    • Writing Apex control structures (loops, if-else, switch)
    • SOQL and DML statements in Apex
    • Writing and structuring Apex classes and triggers
    • Understanding governor limits and their impact on Apex execution
    • Handling errors with custom exceptions
    • Designing scalable logic using both declarative and programmatic approaches

    • User Interface – 25%

    This section checks your ability to work with Salesforce’s user interface tools. You’ll need to demonstrate your understanding of:

    • Visualforce pages and controllers
    • Lightning Component Framework and Web Components
    • Creating secure, user-friendly interfaces
    • Displaying and using custom UI components (Lightning components, Flow, Visualforce)
    • Best practices for component-based development
    • Preventing UI and data access vulnerabilities

    • Testing, Debugging, and Deployment – 22%

    No Salesforce app is complete without quality assurance and deployment. This section ensures you know how to:

    • Write test classes and use assertions for validation
    • Work with tools like Salesforce DX, CLI, and Developer Console
    • Debug system issues and monitor flows, asynchronous jobs, and processes
    • Understand deployment environments and metadata
    • Package and deploy changes efficiently and securely

    Study Resources for Success

    Practice Tips to Succeed in the Exam

    Preparing for the Platform Developer 1 Certification Exam requires more than just reading material — it demands a strategic approach that combines understanding, practice, and consistency. Here are some expert-backed study tips to help you stay on track and maximize your success

    • Understand the Exam Guide: Go through the official exam guide. Understand what each section means and relate it to real examples. Create a checklist to track which areas you’ve covered and which ones need more attention.
    • Follow a Structured Study Plan: Start with a structured plan based on weightage. Allocate more time to sections like Process Automation and logic, and User Interface. Create a weekly plan that balances learning, practice, and review.
    • Set Up and Use a Real Developer Org: Nothing beats hands-on experience. Create a free Salesforce Developer Org and use it regularly. Practice writing Apex code, creating triggers, and using tools like Schema Builder, Debug Logs, and the Developer Console.
    • Take Timed Practice Tests: Simulate the exam environment with mock tests. Use a timer and avoid distractions while practicing. Practicing more builds your confidence and trains your brain to manage time effectively under pressure.
    • Join Study Groups or the Trailblazer Community: Join Salesforce community groups on the Trailblazer Community, Discord, or LinkedIn. Discussing topics with others often brings clarity, exposes you to different perspectives, and keeps you motivated.
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    Final Thoughts

    Preparing for the Platform Developer 1 Certification is not just about passing a test—it’s about laying the foundation for a successful Salesforce development career. Whether you come from a coding background or are transitioning into tech, this certification is the perfect place to start.

    Prepare smart, stay consistent, and most importantly, enjoy the process. Certification isn’t just about passing a test—it’s about becoming a better developer.

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    Vivek K.
    Vivek K.

    Vivek is a skilled Salesforce Consultant and Developer who specializes in building efficient, scalable CRM solutions. At Salesforce Trail, he shares practical insights and tools to help professionals streamline processes and get the most out of their Salesforce journey.

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    1 Comment

    1. Attorneys.ORG on

      I’m so happy to read this. This is the type of manual that needs to be given and not the random misinformation that’s at the other blogs. Appreciate your sharing this best doc.

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