CA PLS Exam Preparation
Comprehensive preparation for the California Professional Land Surveyor (PLS) exam. Based on the January 2025 Test Plan with 6 modules and 57 topics. Content adapted from CalTrans LS/LSIT Video Exam Preparation Course materials.
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Module 1: Business Practices and Project Management
1Explaining Land Surveying to the Public2Proposals and Contracts3Procuring Surveying Services4Directing Personnel5Coordinating with Third Parties6Project Standards7Project Execution Planning8Monument Preservation9Managing a Surveying Business10Subdivision Map Act11Professional Land Surveyors Act12Conflicts of Interest
Module 2: Research, Project Planning and Preparation
Module 3: Field Operations and Investigations
Module 4: Analysis and Evaluation
33Analyzing Field Evidence and Documentation34Evaluating Historic vs. Measured Accuracy35Spatial Relationships of Maps and Data36Boundary Location Conflicts37Title Conflicts38Survey Adjustments (Least Squares, Error Analysis)39Quality Assurance and Control40Reconciling Deeds with Field Evidence41Technology Limitations in Practice
Module 5: Mapping and Document Preparation
Lesson 4
Project Research
Project Research
Overview
Comprehensive project research is the foundation of accurate surveying. Research identifies relevant records, establishes context, and informs the surveyor's approach to boundary resolution.
Learning Objectives
- Conduct systematic record research
- Access various record repositories
- Compile complete research documentation
- Apply research to survey execution
Key Concepts
Research Sources
Key record repositories include:
- County Recorder's Office
- County Surveyor's Office
- County Assessor's Office
- Title companies
- Private surveyor files
- Historical societies and archives
- Federal and state land offices
Research Methodology
Systematic research approach:
- Define the research area
- Compile index maps and references
- Gather all relevant documents
- Create comprehensive research package
- Analyze for conflicts and gaps
- Plan supplemental research as needed
Types of Records
Categories of relevant records:
- Title Records: Deeds, patents, judgments
- Survey Records: Maps, plats, field notes
- Administrative Records: Permits, approvals
- Historical Records: Old maps, photos
Research Documentation
Proper documentation includes:
- List of documents reviewed
- Copies of relevant records
- Notes on findings
- Index and organization system
- Chain of title summary
Key Terms
- Abstract of Title: Summary of title records affecting a property
- Grantor/Grantee Index: System for locating deeds by party name
- Parcel Map: Recorded map of a land division
Practice Questions
- What record sources should be consulted for a comprehensive boundary survey?
- How should research findings be documented and organized?