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 2
Evaluating Historic vs. Measured Accuracy
Evaluating Historic vs. Measured Accuracy
Overview
Modern measurements are typically more precise than historical surveys. Understanding the accuracy of original surveys helps in proper interpretation and prevents inappropriate rejection of valid evidence.
Learning Objectives
- Assess accuracy of historical surveys
- Compare historical and modern precision
- Apply appropriate tolerances
- Avoid over-reliance on modern measurements
Key Concepts
Historical Survey Methods
Understanding original techniques:
- Chain and compass surveys
- Solar observation for direction
- Simple theodolites and transits
- Steel tape measurement
- Proportionate measurement
Expected Accuracy
Typical historical precision:
- Compass bearings: ±30 minutes to 1 degree
- Chain distances: 1:2,500 to 1:10,000
- PLSS original surveys: variable
- Early California surveys: generally poor by modern standards
Modern vs. Historical Comparison
When comparing measurements:
- Express differences in appropriate terms
- Consider original survey limitations
- Don't reject monuments based solely on measurement discrepancy
- Evaluate pattern of errors
Proportional Considerations
Applying historical context:
- Excess and deficiency distribution
- Systematic vs. random errors
- Relationship to controlling monuments
Key Terms
- Precision: Refinement of measurement technique
- Tolerance: Acceptable variation from expected value
- Historical Accuracy: Typical uncertainty of period methods
Practice Questions
- What accuracy should be expected from a chain and compass survey?
- How does historical accuracy affect interpretation of found monuments?
Based on CalTrans LS/LSIT Video Exam Preparation Course materials.