SOQL vs. SOSL: Query Languages for Platform Developer I Certification

So, you’re preparing for the PDI exam (Platform Developer I Exam), and you keep seeing two terms pop up: SOQL and SOSL. You know they both deal with querying data in Salesforce, but when do you use one over the other? Don't worry, I’ve got you covered! Let’s break it down in a simple, conversational way so you can ace this topic on exam day.

SOQL: The Salesforce Version of SQL

If you’re familiar with SQL, then SOQL (Salesforce Object Query Language) will feel right at home. This query language is used when you need to retrieve specific records from a single object or related objects in Salesforce.

When Should You Use SOQL?

Think of SOQL as a tool for structured and precise data retrieval. You use it when:

• You need to fetch data from one object (or related objects via relationships).
• You want to filter records based on specific conditions (e.g., find all Accounts where the industry is "Technology").
• You’re retrieving fields like Name, Email, or CreatedDate from a particular object.

SOQL Example

Let’s say you need to find all Contacts who work for a company named "Salesforce." You’d write:

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[SELECT Name, Email FROM Contact WHERE Account.Name = 'Salesforce']

Simple, right? But what if you’re searching for a keyword across multiple objects? That’s where SOSL comes in.

SOSL: The Google Search of Salesforce

Now, if SOQL is like filtering a structured database, SOSL (Salesforce Object Search Language) is like running a Google search across multiple objects in Salesforce.

When Should You Use SOSL?

SOSL is your go-to option when:

• You need to search for a keyword across multiple objects at once.
• You’re looking for records that contain a specific word in text fields, like Name, Description, or Email.
• You don’t care which object the result comes from, you just need all matching results.

SOSL Example

Imagine you want to find any records where the word "OpenAI" appears, whether it’s in an Account Name, a Contact’s Email, or a Case Description. You’d write:

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[FIND 'OpenAI' IN ALL FIELDS RETURNING Account(Name), Contact(FirstName, LastName), Case(Subject)]

This single query scans multiple objects and pulls all matches, something SOQL cannot do!

SOQL vs. SOSL: Quick Cheat Sheet for the PDI Exam

Which One Should You Use on the PDI Exam?

Great question! The Platform Developer I Exam will test your ability to choose the right tool for the job. The key is to remember:

• Use SOQL when you need to query a specific object or filter data using field values.
• Use SOSL when you need to search across multiple objects for a keyword.

Now that you know the difference, you’re one step closer to passing your PDI exam with confidence! Got any SOQL or SOSL questions? Drop them in the comments, I’d love to help!