How do I view large Terraform plan logs in a readable format?

Last updated: December 19, 2025

Context

When working with large Terraform plans in Spacelift, the logs can be difficult to read directly in the interface. While logs can be downloaded, the raw format isn't user-friendly, especially when trying to review changes with color coding and formatting symbols (~/+/-).

Answer

To view large Terraform plan logs in a more readable format, you can use Visual Studio Code with a specific extension and formatting. Here's how:

  1. Download the log file from Spacelift

  2. Open the file in Visual Studio Code

  3. Install the "Strip ANSI Escape Codes" extension from the VS Code marketplace

  4. With the log file open:

    • Press Ctrl+Shift+P (Windows/Linux) or Cmd+Shift+P (Mac)

    • Type and select "Strip ANSI Escape Codes" command

  5. Change the file format to "Less" for optimal viewing

This method will provide a cleaner, more readable version of the logs with proper formatting and color coding.

Source: Resolution provided by Spacelift support team through direct customer interaction.