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 9
Technology Limitations in Practice
Technology Limitations in Practice
Overview
Professional practice requires understanding when technology can be relied upon and when its limitations affect results. Proper application of technology includes recognizing and managing its constraints.
Learning Objectives
- Apply technology appropriately
- Recognize limitation impacts
- Communicate constraints to clients
- Verify technology-derived results
Key Concepts
Appropriate Application
Matching technology to task:
- Accuracy requirements vs. capability
- Environmental conditions
- Time and cost considerations
- Verification requirements
Limitation Management
Dealing with constraints:
- Understanding error sources
- Quality control procedures
- Independent verification
- Conservative estimates
Client Communication
Explaining technology issues:
- Accuracy expectations
- Limitation impacts
- Uncertainty in results
- Alternative approaches
Verification Strategies
Confirming technology results:
- Independent measurement methods
- Check shots and redundancy
- Comparison with known values
- Reasonableness assessment
Key Terms
- Accuracy Specification: Stated performance capability
- Uncertainty: Range of possible true values
- Verification: Independent confirmation of results
Practice Questions
- How should technology limitations be factored into accuracy statements?
- What verification should be performed on GNSS-derived coordinates?