Quick Answer
The answer is `| inputlookup users.csv` and `| inputlookup users`. Both commands allow you to view lookup table contents in Splunk, but they operate at different levels of abstraction. The first command reads the static CSV file directly from the lookups directory by its filename, while the second references the lookup by its defined name in `transforms.conf`, which maps to the same `users.csv` file—this is the standard method for accessing a configured lookup definition. On the Splunk Core Certified User SPLK-1002 exam, this question tests your understanding of how Splunk handles lookup tables, specifically the distinction between raw file access and configured lookup definitions. A common trap is assuming only the filename works, but Splunk’s lookup system prioritizes the defined name once it’s configured. For memory, think: “Filename for raw, definition for configured”—if the lookup is set up in transforms.conf, use the name without `.csv`.
This SPLK-1002 practice question tests your understanding of using fields and lookups. This is a configuration task: choose the command set that satisfies every stated requirement. Small differences — like 'secret' vs 'password' or 'transport input ssh' vs 'all' — change whether the answer is correct. 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 user wants to view the contents of a lookup table file named `users.csv` that is stored in Splunk. Which two commands can be used? (Choose two.)
`| inputlookup users.csv`
Reads the lookup.
`| inputlookup users` (assuming lookup name is users)
Reads lookup by name.
`| fields users.csv`
Why wrong: Does not read lookup.
`| outputlookup users.csv`
Why wrong: Writes to lookup.
`| lookup users.csv`
Why wrong: Enriches events, not view.
Answer choices
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
`| inputlookup users.csv`
Option A is correct because `| inputlookup users.csv` reads the contents of a static lookup table file named `users.csv` directly from Splunk's lookups directory. Option B is correct because `| inputlookup users` references the lookup by its defined name in transforms.conf, which maps to the file `users.csv`; this is the standard way to access a lookup that has been configured as a lookup definition.
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.
`| inputlookup users.csv`
Why this is correct
Reads the lookup.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
`| inputlookup users` (assuming lookup name is users)
Why this is correct
Reads lookup by name.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
`| fields users.csv`
Why it's wrong here
Does not read lookup.
`| outputlookup users.csv`
Why it's wrong here
Writes to lookup.
`| lookup users.csv`
Why it's wrong here
Enriches events, not view.
Common exam traps
The trap here is that candidates confuse `inputlookup` (which reads and displays lookup contents) with `lookup` (which enriches search results) or `outputlookup` (which writes data), and they forget that the lookup name in `inputlookup` can omit the file extension if a lookup definition exists.
Detailed technical explanation
Under the hood, `inputlookup` reads from the lookup table file stored in `$SPLUNK_HOME/etc/apps/<app>/lookups/` (or a defined path in transforms.conf) and outputs all rows as events. The command without the `.csv` extension relies on the lookup name defined in transforms.conf, which includes the filename and any field mappings; this is critical when the lookup uses a non-CSV format like `.kvstore` or has a custom time-based filter. A real-world scenario is auditing a lookup table for stale entries: using `| inputlookup users` ensures you see the exact data that Splunk uses for field enrichment, including any transformations applied via transforms.conf.
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
Identify which exam domain this question belongs to, review the core concept, then practise similar questions from the same domain.
Using Fields and Lookups — study guide chapter
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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: `| inputlookup users.csv` — Option A is correct because `| inputlookup users.csv` reads the contents of a static lookup table file named `users.csv` directly from Splunk's lookups directory. Option B is correct because `| inputlookup users` references the lookup by its defined name in transforms.conf, which maps to the file `users.csv`; this is the standard way to access a lookup that has been configured as a lookup definition.
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.
About these practice questions
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Same concept, more angles
These questions test the same concept from different angles. Work through them to make sure you can recognise it however the exam phrases it.
Variation 1. A Splunk user wants to see the list of fields that are defined in a lookup table named 'assets' without running a search. Which command should they use?
easyWhy A: Option C is correct. The 'inputlookup' command can be used to preview the lookup table contents and fields. Option A (lookup) enriches events. Option B (fields) shows event fields. Option D (stats) computes statistics.
Last reviewed: Jun 24, 2026
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