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 6
Construction Staking
Construction Staking
Overview
Construction staking transfers design information to the ground for construction guidance. Accurate staking is essential for proper construction of roads, buildings, utilities, and other improvements.
Learning Objectives
- Interpret construction plans for staking
- Set various types of construction stakes
- Calculate staking data from plans
- Document staking activities
Key Concepts
Types of Construction Stakes
Common staking applications:
- Centerline and offset stakes
- Slope stakes
- Grade stakes (blue tops)
- Building layout
- Utility staking
Staking Calculations
Computations for construction:
- Cut and fill from design grades
- Slope intercepts
- Curve staking data
- Building corners and offsets
- Pipe inverts and grades
Staking Procedures
Field procedures for layout:
- Control verification
- Instrument setup and checks
- Stake setting and marking
- Cut sheet preparation
- Quality control verification
Documentation
Recording staking activities:
- Stake location descriptions
- Cut/fill information
- Reference points
- Changes from design
- Communication with contractor
Key Terms
- Blue Top: Stake set to finished grade
- Offset Stake: Stake set at distance from actual position
- Cut Sheet: Document showing cut/fill at each stake
Practice Questions
- How are slope stakes calculated and set?
- What information should be included on construction cut sheets?
Based on CalTrans LS/LSIT Video Exam Preparation Course materials.