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 7
Quality Assurance and Control
Quality Assurance and Control
Overview
Quality assurance (QA) and quality control (QC) processes ensure survey products meet specified standards. Implementing effective QA/QC is essential for professional practice and client satisfaction.
Learning Objectives
- Distinguish between QA and QC
- Implement field verification procedures
- Review and check office work
- Document quality processes
Key Concepts
QA vs. QC
Understanding the difference:
- QA: Systematic processes to ensure quality (preventive)
- QC: Specific checks to verify quality (detective)
- Both are necessary for complete quality management
Field Quality Control
Verification in the field:
- Equipment calibration and checks
- Redundant measurements
- Closure verification
- Independent checks
- Documentation review
Office Quality Control
Verification of office products:
- Calculation checking
- Map/plan review
- Independent verification
- Peer review
- Final quality check
Documentation
Quality records include:
- Procedures followed
- Checks performed
- Issues identified
- Corrective actions
- Approval signatures
Key Terms
- Calibration: Adjustment to meet standard
- Verification: Confirmation of meeting requirements
- Check Set: Independent calculation of results
Practice Questions
- What is the difference between quality assurance and quality control?
- What quality control procedures should be applied to survey calculations?