Mailbag: Learning code vs. getting certified

Dear David,

What is your opinion on time prioritization?

Is it better for someone to prioritize getting all the certifications first, or learning to code?

Sincerely,
Timed Out

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Dear Timed Out,

I was really tempted to take the easy route and just tell you to do both at the same time, however, that would be a waste of both of our time!

Pros of getting certified first:

• Properly learn fundamentals before learning to code (every good coder is always a good admin)
• You can get 5 certifications in just 6 weeks
• Certifications will advance your job/salary immediately
• Objectively measure your Salesforce learning progress

Pros of learning to code first:

• It’s more fun

It’s honestly really difficult for me to think of any reason why you should learn to code first, other than the fact that it might be what you enjoy doing more. Getting certifications is like having a 6 pack of abs – there’s no downside to it and it makes everything in your life better.

In my particular scenario however I prioritized code over everything. However, I also would have rather died than not learned how to code. So unless you have an unhealthy drive to be a coder, I think 95% of people should prioritize certifications.

Hope this helps!
David

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