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 11
Monument Search
Monument Search
Overview
Thorough monument search is critical for accurate boundary surveys. Systematic search techniques and proper documentation ensure all available evidence is considered.
Learning Objectives
- Apply systematic search techniques
- Use detection equipment effectively
- Evaluate found monuments
- Document search activities
Key Concepts
Search Planning
Preparing for monument search:
- Review record positions
- Calculate expected locations
- Identify likely disturbances
- Plan search area and method
Search Techniques
Methods for locating monuments:
- Visual observation
- Metal detection
- Probing
- Digging
- Witness interviews
- Adjacent property information
Detection Equipment
Tools for monument search:
- Metal detectors
- Magnetic locators
- GPR for subsurface features
- Probes and hand tools
Documentation
Recording search activities:
- Search area description
- Methods used
- Monuments found/not found
- Monument conditions
- Photographs and sketches
Key Terms
- Metal Detector: Electronic device for locating metallic objects
- Probe: Tool for detecting buried objects by feel
- Search Pattern: Systematic coverage of search area
Practice Questions
- What factors should be considered when planning a monument search?
- How should unsuccessful search attempts be documented?