How to Create an Apex Class in Salesforce

Apex is Salesforce’s proprietary, strongly typed programming language used to execute server-side logic. Apex classes allow developers to extend Salesforce functionality by implementing business logic, integrations, triggers, controllers, and batch processing.

In this article, we will learn how to create an Apex class in Salesforce using two common methods:

1. Developer Console
   
2. Visual Studio Code with Salesforce Extensions
   

Both approaches are widely used depending on your development workflow.

What Is an Apex Class?

An Apex class is a blueprint that contains:

• Variables
  
• Methods
  
• Business logic
  

Apex classes are used in:

• Triggers
  
• Lightning Web Components (LWC)
  
• Visualforce pages
  
• Batch jobs
  
• Integration logic
  

Creating Apex classes correctly is essential for building scalable Salesforce applications.

Method 1: Create an Apex Class Using Developer Console

This method is simple and best suited for beginners or quick development tasks.

Step 1: Log in to Salesforce

• Open your web browser
  
• Log in to your Salesforce org (Developer, Sandbox, or Production)
  

Step 2: Access Developer Console

• Click on the App Launcher (grid icon)
  
• Search for Developer Console
  
• Open the Developer Console in a new window
  

Step 3: Create a New Apex Class

• In the Developer Console menu, go to:
  
  • File → New → Apex Class
    
• Enter a class name (for example: MyApexClass)
  
• Click OK
  

Step 4: Write Apex Code

Once the editor opens, write your Apex logic.
Below is a simple example:

public class MyApexClass {

    public String greeting {

        get {

            return ‘Hello, Salesforce!’;

        }

    }

}

This example demonstrates:

• A public Apex class
  
• A property with a getter method
  
• Returning a string value
  

Step 5: Save the Apex Class

• Click File → Save
  
• Or use shortcut keys:
  
  • Ctrl + S (Windows)
    
  • Cmd + S (Mac)
    

Step 6: Compile and Check for Errors

• Go to Run → Compile All Classes
  
• Check the Problems tab for compilation errors
  
• Fix any issues if errors appear
  

Step 7: Use the Apex Class

Once compiled successfully, the Apex class can be used in:

• Triggers
  
• Controllers
  
• Batch Apex
  
• Schedulers
  
• REST services
  

Method 2: Create an Apex Class Using Visual Studio Code (VS Code)

This is the recommended method for professional Salesforce development, especially when working with source control and multiple developers.

Step 1: Install Visual Studio Code

• Download and install Visual Studio Code
  
• Ensure it is properly installed on your system
  

Step 2: Install Salesforce Extensions

• Open VS Code
  
• Go to the Extensions Marketplace
  
• Install Salesforce Extension Pack
  

This extension provides:

• Apex development support
  
• CLI integration
  
• Code completion and validation
  

Step 3: Open Your Salesforce Project

• Open your SFDX Salesforce project in VS Code
  
• Make sure your org is authenticated
  

Step 4: Create a New Apex Class

• Click on the Explorer icon
  
• Right-click on the project folder
  
• Select SFDX: Create Apex Class
  
• Enter the class name when prompted
  
• Choose the default directory
  

Step 5: Write Apex Code

VS Code will automatically generate a basic class structure.
You can now add your logic inside the class.

Step 6: Save the Apex Class

• Save the file using:
  
  • File → Save
    
  • Or Ctrl + S / Cmd + S
    

Step 7: Deploy Apex Class to Salesforce

You can deploy the Apex class using:

• Salesforce CLI commands
  
• VS Code Salesforce extension options
  

Once deployed, the class becomes available in your Salesforce org.

Best Practices for Creating Apex Classes

• Use meaningful and descriptive class names
  
• Always follow bulk-safe design
  
• Avoid hardcoding values
  
• Write test classes for every Apex class
  
• Keep logic modular and reusable
  
• Follow Salesforce governor limits
  

Conclusion

Creating an Apex class is a foundational skill for Salesforce developers. Whether you use the Developer Console for quick tasks or Visual Studio Code for enterprise development, understanding both methods gives you flexibility and control.

By mastering Apex classes, you unlock the ability to build powerful business logic, integrations, and custom automation within Salesforce.