SPLK-1002 Macros, Saved Searches and CIM Practice Question
A Splunk user wants to create a macro named `nunique` that takes a field name as an argument and returns the count of distinct values for that field. Which macro definition should be used?
Answer choices
Why each option matters
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
`nunique($1$)` defined as `stats dc($1$) as distinct_count`
The correct macro definition is option B because it uses a positional argument ($1$) and does not include a leading pipe. In Splunk, macros are invoked as part of a pipe chain, so the definition should not start with a pipe. Positional arguments are standard and do not require predefined argument names, whereas named arguments must be defined in the macro properties. Option A fails because it uses a named argument ($field$) without defining it, making it invalid. Options C and D incorrectly include a leading pipe at the start of the definition, which would cause a syntax error when the macro is expanded within a pipe.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
`nunique($field$)` defined as `stats dc($field$) as distinct_count`
Why it's wrong here
Incorrect: Named argument requires macro properties to define argument names.
- ✓
`nunique($1$)` defined as `stats dc($1$) as distinct_count`
Why this is correct
Correct: Uses positional argument and no leading pipe.
- ✗
`nunique($field$)` defined as `| stats dc($field$) as distinct_count`
Why it's wrong here
Incorrect: Combines both errors: leading pipe and named argument without definition.
- ✗
`nunique($1$)` defined as `| stats dc($1$) as distinct_count`
Why it's wrong here
Incorrect: Leading pipe not needed if macro invoked with pipe.
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Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
This SPLK-1002 practice question is part of Courseiva's free Splunk certification practice question bank. Courseiva provides original exam-style practice questions with explanations, topic-based practice, mock exams, readiness tracking, and study analytics to help learners prepare for the SPLK-1002 exam.