How to Pass the Splunk Certified Power User Exam

If you’re looking to get your Splunk Certified Power User certification, you’re probably already familiar with the basics of Splunk. This exam is a step up from the Core User exam and requires a deeper understanding of Splunk’s more advanced features. It can be challenging, but with the right approach, you can pass it. Here’s a quick guide on what to expect and how to prepare.

Exam Scoring and Structure:

• Scored out of 100

• Passing score: 70

• Number of questions: 65

• Format: Multiple choice and true/false

What’s Covered in the Exam:

• Using Transforming Commands for Visualizations: 5%

• Filtering and Formatting Results: 10%

• Correlating Events: 15%

• Creating and Managing Fields: 10%

• Creating Field Aliases and Calculated Fields: 10%

• Creating Tags and Event Types: 10%

• Creating and Using Macros: 10%

• Creating and Using Workflow Actions: 10%

• Creating Data Models: 10%

• Using the Common Information Model (CIM) Add-On: 10%

Resources I Used:

These are the resources I used. Passing this exam definitely takes more studying than the Core User exam, so be prepared to put in the time.

Udemy:

There weren’t too many options when searching for courses specifically related to the Power User curriculum. But Udemy did have one. I also used Udemy for practice tests as well. Since Splunk doesn't offer them officially.

• Splunk Fundamentals 2 by Ableversity Inc.

• Practice Tests by SS Cyber Security

Splunk Enterprise Free Trial:
Using the Splunk Enterprise free trial was key to getting hands-on experience. I practiced everything from creating dashboards and workflow actions to running advanced commands, which helped solidify my understanding of the concepts and tools covered in the exam.

• Splunk Enterprise Free Trial

Taking Detailed Notes:
I used OneNote to take and review detailed notes every day. This helped me stay organized and retain the information better. Reviewing these notes regularly was essential for reinforcing the material and ensuring I was well-prepared. (REVIEW, REVIEW & APPLY)

Test Blueprint:

• Reviewing the test blueprint helped me understand the topics covered and focus my study efforts. (Link)

ChatGPT:

I used ChatGPT to help break down topics I had trouble understanding. This is a valuable resource that can be used for reviews, quizzes, or summarizing any notes you take. I say it’s really a Swiss army knife if used correctly.

Good luck to those taking the exam. Remember to study hard and apply your knowledge.