Two Ways to View Lookup Table Contents in Splunk
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.)
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`.
⚠ Common exam trap
A common mix-up: 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.
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
✓
`| inputlookup users.csv`
`| 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.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
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.
- ✓
`| inputlookup users` (assuming lookup name is users)
Why this is correct
Reads lookup by name.
- ✗
`| 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.
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Same concept, more angles
1 more way this is tested on SPLK-1001
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?
easy- ✓ A.| inputlookup assets
- B.| lookup assets
- C.| stats values(*) as * by *
- D.| fields assets
Why A: The `| inputlookup assets` command displays the contents of the lookup table named 'assets', including its fields, without needing to run a search. Option B (`| lookup assets`) is used to enrich search results with lookup data, not to view the table. Option C (`| stats values(*) as * by *`) computes statistics and does not show lookup fields. Option D (`| fields assets`) is invalid because `fields` is used to select or remove fields from search results, not to view lookup tables.
JA
Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
This SPLK-1001 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-1001 exam.