Salesforce Marketing Cloud Developer Exam Guide

The Salesforce Marketing Cloud Developer exam is designed to assess the knowledge and skills of developers who specialize in developing for Marketing Cloud. This certification program is intended for individuals who have hands-on experience and expertise in administering and configuring the Marketing Cloud Email application, as demonstrated through the successful completion of the Salesforce Certified Marketing Cloud Email Specialist exam.

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The Salesforce Marketing Cloud Developer program focuses on equipping developers with the necessary skills to create dynamic and personalized marketing assets within the Marketing Cloud platform. This includes the development of engaging emails, landing pages, and forms using HTML, CSS, and AMPscript. Candidates are expected to demonstrate proficiency in SQL and possess experience in using Marketing Cloud APIs for seamless integration and interaction with external systems.

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To successfully prepare for the exam, Salesforce recommends a combination of practical experience, training courses, and self-study. Candidates are encouraged to gain hands-on experience in developing for Marketing Cloud and familiarize themselves with the platform's features and functionalities. Additionally, Salesforce offers training resources, including courses and study materials, to support candidates in their exam preparation.

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By earning the Salesforce Marketing Cloud Developer certification, individuals validate their skills and knowledge in developing effective marketing solutions within the Marketing Cloud ecosystem. This credential showcases their ability to leverage HTML, CSS, AMPscript, SQL, and Marketing Cloud APIs to deliver personalized and impactful marketing campaigns. With this certification, developers can differentiate themselves in the job market and contribute to the success of organizations utilizing Salesforce Marketing Cloud.

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Who is it for

The Salesforce Marketing Cloud Developer program is designed for developers who have hands-on experience developing for Marketing Cloud. It is specifically targeted towards individuals who have already completed the Salesforce Certified Marketing Cloud Email Specialist exam, demonstrating their proficiency in administering and configuring the Marketing Cloud Email application.

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The program is suitable for Marketing Cloud Developers who specialize in developing dynamic and personalized marketing assets, including emails, landing pages, and forms. These developers possess the necessary skills in HTML, CSS, and AMPscript to create engaging and customized marketing content within the Marketing Cloud platform. Additionally, they are proficient in SQL and have experience working with Marketing Cloud APIs to integrate and interact with external systems.

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Overall, the program caters to developers who are looking to enhance their expertise in developing for Marketing Cloud, enabling them to leverage their skills to create compelling and personalized marketing campaigns for businesses using the platform.

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Key capabilities expected from the candidate include:

1. Data Configuration and Customization: The candidate should have the ability to configure and customize data models in Marketing Cloud, including data extensions, shared data extensions, and the Contact model. They should be proficient in data import processes and have experience working with customer and platform data using SQL and views. Knowledge of data manipulation and advanced segmentation is also important.

2. Scripting and Personalization: The candidate should be skilled in scripting languages used in Marketing Cloud, such as AMPscript, Guide Template Language (GTL), and Server-Side JavaScript. They should be able to create dynamic and personalized marketing assets, including emails and landing pages, using these scripting languages. Experience with creating custom preference pages and data forms is also expected.

3. Integration and API Usage: The candidate should have a solid understanding of subscription management and be able to work with REST and SOAP APIs for integrating Marketing Cloud with other systems. They should be capable of resolving scenarios and troubleshooting issues related to API usage. Knowledge of Marketing Cloud Connect, which enables integration with other Salesforce products, is beneficial but not mandatory for this certification.

4. Reporting and Analytics: The candidate should have familiarity with reporting and analytics in Marketing Cloud. This includes the ability to configure and interpret basic reports, as well as leverage data for insights and optimization of email campaigns. Proficiency in SQL, including join statements, is necessary for data analysis and reporting purposes.

5. Full-Stack Development Experience: The candidate should have at least a year of experience as a full-stack developer for Marketing Cloud. They should possess a comprehensive understanding of various programmatic languages and be able to troubleshoot and resolve issues related to the design and execution of both tactical and strategic email campaigns.

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Overall, a Salesforce Marketing Cloud Developer should have a strong foundation in data configuration, scripting, integration, and analytics to develop personalized marketing assets and drive successful email campaigns within the Marketing Cloud platform.

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Purpose of this Exam Guide

The purpose of this Exam Guide is to assist individuals in assessing their readiness to successfully complete the Salesforce Marketing Cloud Developer exam. It serves as a comprehensive resource that provides valuable information about the certification exam. The guide offers insights into the target audience for the exam, recommended training and documentation, and a detailed list of exam objectives.

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By providing this information, the Exam Guide aims to help candidates understand the requirements and expectations of the exam. It serves as a roadmap for exam preparation, offering guidance on the necessary knowledge and skills to pass the exam and achieve a favorable outcome. The guide emphasizes the importance of a well-rounded approach to exam preparation, which includes on-the-job experience, attending relevant courses, and engaging in self-study.

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Ultimately, the purpose of this Exam Guide is to increase candidates' chances of success by providing them with the necessary information and resources to adequately prepare for the Salesforce Marketing Cloud Developer exam. It acts as a valuable tool to evaluate one's readiness and align their knowledge and skills with the exam objectives, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.

 

About the Exam

This section provides important details about the Salesforce Marketing Cloud Developer exam to help you prepare effectively for the assessment.​

• Exam Format: The Salesforce Marketing Cloud Developer exam consists of 60 multiple-choice/multiple-select questions. These questions assess your knowledge and skills in developing for Marketing Cloud and associated tools.

• Time Allotted: You will have 105 minutes to complete the exam. It is important to manage your time effectively to ensure you can carefully read and respond to each question.

• Passing Score: To pass the exam and earn the Salesforce Marketing Cloud Developer credential, you must achieve a minimum passing score of 63%. This score reflects your proficiency in developing and configuring data models, scripting languages, web experiences, and working with APIs in Marketing Cloud.

• Registration Fee: The registration fee for the exam is USD 200, plus applicable taxes as required by local law. Ensure you have made the necessary payment arrangements before registering for the exam.

• Retake Fee: If you do not pass the exam on your first attempt, a retake fee of USD 100, plus applicable taxes, will be applicable for subsequent attempts.

• Delivery Options: The exam can be taken in a proctored setting at a designated testing center or in an online proctored environment. Both delivery options provide a secure and reliable testing experience.

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By familiarizing yourself with these details, you can better prepare for the Salesforce Marketing Cloud Developer exam. It is recommended to study the exam objectives, gain hands-on experience in developing for Marketing Cloud, complete relevant training courses, and utilize additional resources to enhance your knowledge and skills in this area. 

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Recommended Training and References

To effectively prepare for the Salesforce Marketing Cloud Developer exam, it is advisable to engage in a combination of hands-on experience, training courses, Trailhead trails, and self-study. The following resources are recommended for your preparation:

1. Trail: Develop for Marketing Cloud: This trail on the Salesforce Trailhead platform provides a comprehensive learning path specifically designed for Marketing Cloud Developers. It covers various topics related to developing and customizing solutions within Marketing Cloud, including scripting languages, data modeling, automation, and more. Completing this trail will help you gain practical knowledge and hands-on experience in the development aspects of Marketing Cloud.

2. Marketing Cloud Developer Center: The Marketing Cloud Developer Center is a valuable online resource that provides documentation, guides, tutorials, and reference materials specifically tailored for developers working with Marketing Cloud. It covers a wide range of topics, including scripting languages like AMPscript, configuration and customization options, integration with other systems, and best practices for efficient development. Exploring the Developer Center will enhance your understanding of the technical aspects of Marketing Cloud development.

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By engaging with these recommended training materials and references, you can strengthen your knowledge and skills as a Marketing Cloud Developer. It is important to allocate sufficient time for hands-on practice, complete the recommended training courses, explore the available resources in the Developer Center, and leverage Trailhead trails to reinforce your understanding of the concepts and techniques involved in developing for Marketing Cloud.

 

Exam Outline

The Salesforce Marketing Cloud Developer exam assesses a candidate's knowledge and proficiency in various aspects of developing for Marketing Cloud and associated tools. The exam objectives cover the following key areas:

Data Modeling (14%)

• Configure the account's Contact model in Marketing Cloud.

• Differentiate the types and uses of data extensions in Marketing Cloud.

• Understand how Contact Records relate across channels.

• Explain the Contact Delete process.

Programmatic Languages (35%)

• Demonstrate knowledge of AMPscript and SSJS language syntax and functions.

• Implement standard development best practices using Marketing Cloud programming languages.

• Understand how Marketing Cloud handles AMPscript processing.

• Determine how to programmatically exclude a subscriber at email send time.

API (22%)

• Describe API objects, methods, and routes in Marketing Cloud.

• Explain the OAuth authentication flow and the usage of access tokens in SOAP and REST headers.

• Evaluate the significance of response handling in API integrations.

Data Management (22%)

• Configure import activities using various file formats in Marketing Cloud.

• Apply SQL to produce desired results in Marketing Cloud.

• Explain different methods of data extraction from Marketing Cloud.

• Describe SQL best practices for managing data in Marketing Cloud.

• Apply best practices for send logs.

• Understand how data is affected by the Contact delete process.

Security (7%)

• Identify options for securing data in Marketing Cloud.

• Describe security best practices in Marketing Cloud.

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To succeed in the Salesforce Marketing Cloud Developer exam, candidates should have hands-on experience developing for Marketing Cloud and associated tools. It is essential to thoroughly understand and demonstrate expertise in data modeling, programmatic languages like AMPscript and SSJS, API integration, data management, and security practices within the Marketing Cloud environment.

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Preparing for the exam involves gaining practical experience, studying the exam objectives, and acquiring a solid understanding of the concepts and best practices outlined in each area. By focusing on these key areas and thoroughly preparing for each objective, candidates can enhance their chances of successfully passing the Salesforce Marketing Cloud Developer exam.