Quick Answer
The answer is that the lookup will return all matching rows for each input event. This is because `max_matches = 0` removes any limit on the number of rows returned per event, while `case_sensitive_match = false` makes the key comparison case-insensitive, so values like "Smith" and "smith" are treated as identical. On the Splunk SPLK-1002 exam, this combination tests your understanding of how transforms.conf lookup settings control both the breadth of results and the strictness of matching. A common trap is assuming `max_matches = 0` means no matches are returned, but in Splunk, zero actually means unlimited matches. Remember the memory tip: "Zero is the hero for unlimited rows, and false is the ace for case-free face."
This SPLK-1002 practice question tests your understanding of using fields and lookups. Read the scenario carefully and evaluate each option against the stated constraints before committing to an answer. After answering, compare your reasoning against the explanation and wrong-answer breakdown below. Once you have made your selection, read the full explanation to reinforce the concept and understand why each distractor is designed to mislead on exam day.
A lookup definition in transforms.conf includes the following settings: `filename = employees.csv`, `max_matches = 0`, `case_sensitive_match = false`. Which three statements about this lookup are true? (Choose three.)
The lookup will fail if there are duplicate keys.
Why wrong: Duplicates allowed.
The lookup will only return the first match for each event.
Why wrong: Returns all.
The lookup matching is case-insensitive.
case_sensitive_match=false.
The lookup can be used with the `| lookup` command.
Standard usage.
The lookup will return all matching rows for each input event.
max_matches=0 means all.
Answer choices
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
The lookup matching is case-insensitive.
Option C is correct because the `case_sensitive_match = false` setting in transforms.conf explicitly makes the lookup matching case-insensitive. This means that when the lookup is performed, the comparison between the event field value and the lookup key ignores differences in uppercase and lowercase characters.
Key principle: Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Answer analysis
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
The lookup will fail if there are duplicate keys.
Why it's wrong here
Duplicates allowed.
The lookup will only return the first match for each event.
Why it's wrong here
Returns all.
The lookup matching is case-insensitive.
Why this is correct
case_sensitive_match=false.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
The lookup can be used with the `| lookup` command.
Why this is correct
Standard usage.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
The lookup will return all matching rows for each input event.
Why this is correct
max_matches=0 means all.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
Common exam traps
The trap here is that candidates often confuse `max_matches = 0` with 'no matches' or 'first match only', when in fact it means 'unlimited matches', and they may also overlook that `case_sensitive_match = false` explicitly enables case-insensitive matching.
Detailed technical explanation
In Splunk, the `max_matches` setting in transforms.conf controls the maximum number of rows returned per input event from a lookup table. A value of `0` means unlimited matches, which is useful for one-to-many lookups where an event may correspond to multiple rows in the CSV. The `case_sensitive_match = false` setting affects how the lookup key is compared, using case-insensitive string comparison under the hood, which is important for data like usernames or email addresses where case may vary.
Key takeaway
Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Real-world example
A practitioner preparing for the SPLK-1002 exam encounters this exact type of scenario on the job. The correct answer here is not the most general option — it is the best answer for the specific constraint described. Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option. Real exam questions reward reading the full scenario before eliminating options, because the constraint defines which answer fits.
What to study next
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FAQ
Using Fields and Lookups — This question tests Using Fields and Lookups — Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer..
The correct answer is: The lookup matching is case-insensitive. — Option C is correct because the `case_sensitive_match = false` setting in transforms.conf explicitly makes the lookup matching case-insensitive. This means that when the lookup is performed, the comparison between the event field value and the lookup key ignores differences in uppercase and lowercase characters.
Identify which exam domain this question belongs to, review the core concept, then practise similar questions from the same domain.
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
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Last reviewed: Jun 24, 2026
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.
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