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.
Progress0/57
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 8
Field Communication
Field Communication
Overview
Effective field communication ensures survey crews work safely and efficiently while maintaining project coordination. Clear communication with contractors, clients, and the public is equally important.
Learning Objectives
- Communicate effectively with crew members
- Coordinate with contractors and clients
- Document field communications
- Address field questions appropriately
Key Concepts
Crew Communication
Internal crew coordination:
- Clear instructions and expectations
- Standard terminology and signals
- Radio/phone protocols
- Job assignment communication
- Safety information sharing
Contractor Coordination
Working with construction teams:
- Pre-construction meetings
- Daily coordination
- Staking requests and priorities
- Problem resolution
- Change documentation
Client Communication
Maintaining client relationships:
- Progress updates
- Issue notification
- Scope clarification
- Finding documentation
- Professional conduct
Documentation
Recording communications:
- Field notes of discussions
- Email/written confirmations
- Decision documentation
- Change orders
- Issue logs
Key Terms
- RFI: Request for Information
- Site Meeting: Scheduled coordination discussion
- Daily Log: Record of daily activities and communications
Practice Questions
- How should field findings that affect project scope be communicated?
- What information should be documented in field communication records?