The exam will take place on your computer, at your home. I won’t delve too much into the technical details of this exam because they sometimes change (as was the case, for example, during the Coronavirus pandemic).
Tip
I encourage you to familiarize yourself with the current details here: https://trailhead.salesforce.com/help?article=Online-Proctoring-Completing-Your-Exam-Remotely
- Pros:
- You can use your own computer, which you are familiar with
- You can take the exam in the comfort of your own home, which can be less stressful
- There is no need to travel anywhere to take the exam, so it’s cheaper
- Cons:
- You need to use your own computer, which you are familiar with (I know that I have mentioned this as a pro but read the end of this sentence to discover why this can be a disadvantage), but it may not be functioning properly and could malfunction during the exam.
- You need to install dedicated Salesforce software before the exam.
- You will be proctored via your own webcam, so you need to focus on the screen and avoid looking around too much. If you do, you may be asked to redirect your laptop camera, which can disrupt your rhythm of answering questions.
- If there is an issue with your computer, you are responsible for it. As a result, if the exam is interrupted due to technical issues on your end, you may lose the money invested in the exam.
Onsite Proctored
The exam will not take place on your computer, not in your home, but at a Salesforce partner’s facility, which is responsible for administering the exam. You will be able to choose from a list of locations that Salesforce collaborates with within your region or even city. For example, such a view appears when I try to sign up for an Onsite Proctored exam.
Figure 12.3: Webassessor Testing Centers in my region
As you can see in the preceding image, in the city where I live, I have three different places where I can take Salesforce exams. Okay, but what are the pros and cons of Onsite Proctored exams?
- Pros:
- Everything is prepared for you, so you don’t need to worry about things like having the right computer or internet connection.
- You may feel more relaxed, as the entire exam room is monitored with CCTV, reducing the chance of someone else taking the same exam simultaneously and potentially seeing your answers. This allows for more flexibility in your movements and gaze during the exam.
- You are required to surrender all belongings before entering the exam room, including your watch, keys, and anything else in your pockets. Even your glasses will be checked for hidden cameras. This level of scrutiny can provide a sense of security and relaxation during the exam, knowing that you cannot cheat.
- Cons:
- You need to travel to take the exam, as not all cities have test centers that support Salesforce certifications. This can add stress and additional costs.
- Testing in an external exam center can be more stressful for some individuals who prefer taking exams in their own peaceful and familiar environment.
- There may be other individuals taking different exams at the same time. Although talking during the exam is prohibited, some people may inadvertently make noise or mutter under their breath, which can be distracting. While earplugs are provided, they may not be comfortable to wear for everyone. Additionally, there may be noise from adjacent rooms, such as from other training sessions (it happened to me once). In summary, you may not be alone during the exam, and there may be increased noise levels, affecting your concentration.
- Event Proctored – Sometimes, Salesforce allows individuals to take exams at events they host. This is a unique opportunity to take the exam outside of your home, but often this possibility is limited to dedicated invitations. I won’t describe the pros and cons here, as this form of exam is essentially the same as the Onsite Proctored exam, so they will be consistent with that format.
I promised to tell you which option I always chose. Well, my dear Salesforce enthusiasts, I took all my exams in the Onsite Proctored format. I choose this option because, in the city where I live, there are examination centers that allow taking Salesforce exams, and even more so because, during the exam, I prefer someone to take care of the computer and ensure the proper functioning of the exam platform for me. At the beginning, I told you that this is my subjective assessment and preference, so I understand that yours may be different because I know many people who always choose to take all their exams at home because they prefer it, and that’s it! Fortunately, Salesforce allows for that choice, so you have the option to choose either way, and that’s great. Finally, in the discussion about how to sign up for the exam, I want to inform you that the exam can be rescheduled. I have done this before when I felt that I had not dedicated enough time to study, which resulted in average scores on practice tests, or when something else came up on that date. However, remember that to reschedule a Salesforce exam, you must do so 72 hours before your exam.