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 5
Monitoring Surveys
Monitoring Surveys
Overview
Monitoring surveys detect and measure changes in position or elevation over time. Applications include structural monitoring, landslide observation, and construction settlement tracking.
Learning Objectives
- Design monitoring programs
- Select appropriate methods and instruments
- Analyze monitoring data
- Report significant movements
Key Concepts
Monitoring Applications
Common monitoring scenarios:
- Structural deformation
- Slope stability
- Construction settlement
- Dam safety
- Ground subsidence
Program Design
Effective monitoring programs include:
- Stable reference points
- Appropriate observation frequency
- Detection threshold determination
- Clear reporting protocols
- Long-term data management
Methods and Instruments
Monitoring techniques:
- Precise leveling for vertical movement
- Total station for 3D positioning
- GNSS for continuous monitoring
- Tiltmeters and inclinometers
- Automated systems
Data Analysis
Interpreting monitoring results:
- Baseline establishment
- Movement detection thresholds
- Trend analysis
- Alert level determination
- Statistical significance
Key Terms
- Reference Point: Stable point assumed to be stationary
- Movement Threshold: Minimum detectable change
- Alert Level: Movement triggering notification
Practice Questions
- What factors determine the appropriate monitoring frequency?
- How is measurement precision related to movement detection capability?