Apex is Salesforce‘s programming language designed to automate processes, customize functionality, and integrate systems. If you’re new to Apex, here’s how to get started quickly:
public with sharing class AccountUpdater {
public static void updateAccountNames() {
List<Account> accounts = [SELECT Id, Name FROM Account WHERE Name != null LIMIT 10];
for (Account acc : accounts) {
acc.Name = acc.Name + ' - Updated';
}
if (!accounts.isEmpty()) {
update accounts;
}
}
}
Before diving into Apex coding, it’s important to set up your development environment properly. These tools are designed to simplify Salesforce development, even if you’re just starting out.
The Salesforce Command Line Interface (CLI) is a powerful tool that streamlines Salesforce development. Here’s how to get started:
sf update
Once the CLI is ready, sign up for a free Developer Edition on Salesforce’s website. Then, connect your new org to the CLI by running:
sf login
The Developer Console is a handy tool built right into Salesforce, especially useful for those just starting out [1]. To access it:
This tool offers features like code completion, syntax highlighting, real-time debugging, and the ability to execute code directly.
If you’re looking for more advanced capabilities, Visual Studio Code is a great option [2]. It’s widely used by professional developers for its flexibility and features. Here’s how to set it up:
Once you’ve completed these steps, you’ll have everything you need to start writing your first Apex class.
Getting familiar with the structure of an Apex class is a key step in learning Salesforce development. Let’s walk through creating your first Apex class in a way that’s simple and easy to follow.
Apex classes are structured similarly to Java classes. One important concept is sharing rules, which determine whether the class respects the current user’s access permissions. Use with sharing to enforce these permissions or without sharing to bypass them.
Here’s an example of a basic Apex class:
public with sharing class MyFirstClass {
// Class variables
private String greeting = 'Hello World';
// Methods
public String sayHello() {
return greeting;
}
}
Key components:
Let’s create a class that updates account names in Salesforce.
AccountUpdater (File → New → Apex Class).public with sharing class AccountUpdater {
public static void updateAccountNames() {
// Query accounts with non-null names
List<Account> accounts = [SELECT Id, Name
FROM Account
WHERE Name != null
LIMIT 10];
// Update account names
for (Account acc : accounts) {
acc.Name = acc.Name + ' - Updated';
}
// Save changes
if (!accounts.isEmpty()) {
update accounts;
}
}
}
| Problem | What Causes It | How to Fix It |
|---|---|---|
| Database Operations in Loops | Performing updates inside a loop | Use a list to collect records and update them all at once. |
| Incorrect Access Modifiers | Using the wrong visibility settings | Use public for broader access, private for class-only use. |
Pro Tips:
Since Apex operates in a multi-tenant environment, following Salesforce’s coding best practices ensures your code runs efficiently and securely. Start small and gradually tackle more advanced features as you grow comfortable with the basics.
You’ve written your first Apex class – great start! Now, let’s look at how to improve your workflow and make coding more efficient.
The Developer Console and CLI offer pre-built Apex templates that can simplify your work [1]. These templates cover common tasks like object operations, batch processing, and unit testing. They come with foundational elements like sharing declarations and test scaffolding already in place, so you can focus on customizing the logic.
To use these in the Developer Console, go to the New Apex Class menu, pick a template that fits your task, and tweak it to meet your project’s needs.
Platforms like Learn Apex provide hands-on exercises paired with instant feedback [2]. This approach helps you practice coding while reinforcing best practices. It’s a great way to build confidence and improve your skills.
Development Tips to Keep in Mind:
By applying these strategies, you’ll not only speed up your coding but also develop a solid skill set for tackling more challenging Salesforce tasks.
“Regularly practicing with new features, participating in coding challenges, and staying updated with the latest Salesforce releases can help developers refine their skills and stay proficient.” [1]
Creating your first Apex class begins with setting up your environment, whether you use the Salesforce CLI or the Developer Console. Knowing the basics – like access modifiers and sharing modes – is crucial for writing secure and functional code [1]. If you need a refresher, revisit the section on sharing modes.
Your journey with Apex doesn’t stop after writing your first class. Salesforce offers plenty of resources to help you grow:
Development Environment Setup
Interactive Learning Tools
Platforms that offer hands-on exercises and instant feedback can help you practice Apex while solving practical challenges [2]. These tools are great for applying what you’ve learned to real-world scenarios.
To further develop your skills:
Creating an Apex class in Salesforce can be done using Setup, the Developer Console, or Visual Studio Code. Here’s how:
“An Apex class is a template or blueprint from which objects are created, allowing developers to encapsulate data and methods that operate on that data” [1].
Before you start, make sure you have:
Resources like Trailhead and the Salesforce Developer Community are excellent for improving your Apex skills [2]. Once you’re comfortable creating classes, you can begin building custom logic and solutions tailored to your needs in Salesforce.