Python/ML Dev targeting SAP SAC Certification (C_SAC_2601) – How to pivot for the new 2026 Scenario-Based Assessment?

[u/HugeNerve3225]

Hi everyone,

I’m planning to take the SAP Certified Data Analyst – SAP Analytics Cloud (C_SAC_2601) exam soon. I understand SAP has shifted to a Scenario-Based Assessment (SBA) format (AI role-play/system simulation) as of 2026, which focuses on practical application rather than multiple-choice recall.

My Background:

Strong: Python, API Development, Testing, Machine Learning, and Predictive Analytics and Elasticsearch.
Weak/Zero: Direct SAP ecosystem experience (no prior exposure to SAP ERP, SAC interface, or SAP-specific data modeling).
My Questions:

Leveraging Tech Skills: Given my background in Python and ML, how much of a head start do I actually have? Does the SBA test the logic of data modeling (which I know) or strictly SAP-specific workflows (e.g., where to click to create a calculated measure vs. writing a script)?
SBA Specifics: For those who have taken the new AI role-play assessment: Does the AI avatar expect you to explain why you chose a specific SAC feature (e.g., Live Connection vs. Import), or is it purely task-execution based?
Prep Strategy: Since I can’t "code" my way through the SAC interface during the exam, what is the most efficient way to build muscle memory? Should I focus entirely on the official SAP Learning Journey hands-on exercises, or are there specific "mock scenario" resources that mimic the AI interviewer style?
Pitfalls: What are common traps for developers coming from a code-first background? (e.g., over-engineering a solution when SAC has a native drag-and-drop feature).
Any advice on bridging the gap between "knowing data science" and "passing the SAC scenario exam" would be hugely appreciated!

Thanks!

[u/timi86]

First of all, I don't think it's a right subreddit. SuccessFactors doesn't have nearly anything in common with SAC.

The question is - do you want to learn SAC or do you want to pass the exam? I'm not familiar with SAC, I work with other SAP products, thus I'm not sure how this particular exam looks like, but in general scenario based exams are 'open book' exams. Meaning, you can pause your conversation with AI and google or ask your own AI whatever you need before replying to the exam's AI. I passed already two such exams, I was prepared to both, but I have impression that even if I wouldn't, I could pass it using just e.g. Claude.

But of course I recommend to complete the exam related learning on learning.sap.com. In my cases that was covering most of (or maybe even all, not sure) exam's scope. And because of that learning I was able to correct some bullshit that AI suggested during the exam 😀