How to clear DEV 501 exam?

How to clear Advanced Developer Exam?
Many participants ask me how to clear Advanced Developer Exam. In this document I have answered frequently asked questions.
Q How many questions do we have in DEV 501 exam?
A The Salesforce.com Certified Force.com Advanced Developer exam has the following characteristics:
▪ Content: 69 multiple-choice/multiple-select questions
▪ Time allotted to complete the exam: 120 minutes
▪ Passing score: 73 percent
Q Can I appear for DEV 501 exam without clearing DEV 401 exam?
A No, you have to clear DEV 401 exam before DEV 501 eam.
Q How should I prepare for DEV 501 exam?
A You should ensure that you have read following
a) Visualforce Guide (Latest Release)
b) Apex Guide (Latest Release)
Q I have downloaded the guides, but that is too long to read, can you suggest some topics to focus to start with?
A Best way is download the study guide, and take a print of it pick a topic from study guide and prepare that topic from guides.
Q I have been planning to give the exams for long, but not able to give it. Can you help me?
A Best way is set a timeline for yourself and develop a habit of studying for 30 minutes everyday and stick to it. You will see a change in your progress.
Q I have heard that there are 3 exams in DEV 501? Can you elaborate on this?
A Yes, you are correct. To earn this credential, a candidate must successfully complete three activities:

1. The Salesforce.com Certified Force.com Advanced Developer exam: A multiple-choice/multipleselect
proctored exam. This portion of the credential program must be passed successfully to move on
to the next portion: the programming assignment.

2. The Advanced Developer programming assignment: At scheduled times throughout the year,
certification candidates who have passed the Salesforce.com Certified Force.com Advanced
Developer exam will be given the opportunity to complete the second portion of the credential
program: the programming assignment. A set of requirements and development parameters will be
sent to the candidate, and the candidate will have a fixed amount of time to complete and submit
the assignment. The candidate will be given the evaluation criteria and detailed instructions on how
to complete and submit the final working application. The programming assignment is completed
at the candidate’s own pace and doesn’t require working at a proctored site. However, there will be a
deadline for assignment completion.

3. The Advanced Developer essay exam: Upon submission of the programming assignment, the
candidate will be required to complete a short-answer proctored exam that covers the specifics of
the programming assignment. The candidate will need to go to a testing center and complete the
essay exam. The essay exam, in combination with the programming assignment, will be evaluated
and scored as the final portion of the Salesforce.com Certified Force.com Advanced Developer
certification program

Q How can I remain updated with force.com knowledge?
A Develop a habit of
a) Reading blogs
b) Watching webinars
c) Watching youtube videos
d) Reading discussion forums
e) Join Linkedin Groups
f) Visiting developer.force.com
Q Is certification really helpful in my career progression?
A Clearing a certification gives you self confidence and it shows your seriousness towards achieving professional excellence.
Q I have cleared my certification, how can I further enhance my knowledge.
A You will learn more when you start sharing your knowledge with others. Develop a habit of
a) Writing blogs
b) Creating webinars
c) Creating youtube videos
d) Answering questions in discussion forums
e) Create Linkedin Groups