NSPS CST Level 1 Exam| Questions and
Answers (2025) | Verified 100%
What is the primary purpose of a land survey?
To accurately measure and map the boundaries, features, and dimensions of a property.
What unit of measurement is most commonly used for surveying distances in the U.S.?
Feet are typically used for measuring distances in land surveys.
How is elevation typically measured in land surveys?
Elevation is measured relative to a reference point known as the datum, typically using a
leveling instrument.
What is a benchmark in surveying?
A benchmark is a fixed point of known elevation used as a reference for surveying and
construction.
What does the term "total station" refer to in surveying?
A total station is an electronic instrument used for measuring angles and distances,
combining an EDM (electronic distance measuring) device and an angle measurement device.
What is the main purpose of a transit in surveying?
A transit is used to measure horizontal and vertical angles in surveying.
1
,What does the term "boundary survey" refer to?
A boundary survey establishes the legal boundaries of a property, often for the purpose of
resolving property disputes or preparing for development.
What is the difference between a topographic survey and a boundary survey?
A topographic survey shows the contours and features of the land, while a boundary survey
determines property boundaries and legal descriptions.
What is the primary function of a geodetic survey?
Geodetic surveys are used to measure large areas of the Earth’s surface, considering its
curvature and employing high precision methods.
What is a datum in surveying?
A datum is a reference point or system used to define locations and elevations in surveying.
What does a contour line on a survey map represent?
A contour line represents a line of equal elevation on a map, showing the terrain’s shape and
slope.
What is a lot survey used for?
A lot survey defines the boundaries, dimensions, and topography of a specific parcel of land,
typically for development purposes.
2
, What is the purpose of a plat map in surveying?
A plat map is a detailed map showing property boundaries, streets, and easements, often used
in real estate transactions.
What is the term for the legal description of property boundaries in surveying?
The legal description is typically called a metes and bounds description, which outlines the
perimeter of a property using reference points.
What is a theodolite used for?
A theodolite is used to measure horizontal and vertical angles, helping to establish precise
locations in land surveying.
What does "adjusting the survey" mean in surveying practice?
Adjusting the survey involves correcting errors in measurements to ensure accuracy and
consistency in the results.
How does a surveyor determine the position of a point relative to a known point?
By using triangulation or trilateration methods, which involve measuring angles and
distances from known reference points.
What are "easements" in the context of land surveying?
3
Answers (2025) | Verified 100%
What is the primary purpose of a land survey?
To accurately measure and map the boundaries, features, and dimensions of a property.
What unit of measurement is most commonly used for surveying distances in the U.S.?
Feet are typically used for measuring distances in land surveys.
How is elevation typically measured in land surveys?
Elevation is measured relative to a reference point known as the datum, typically using a
leveling instrument.
What is a benchmark in surveying?
A benchmark is a fixed point of known elevation used as a reference for surveying and
construction.
What does the term "total station" refer to in surveying?
A total station is an electronic instrument used for measuring angles and distances,
combining an EDM (electronic distance measuring) device and an angle measurement device.
What is the main purpose of a transit in surveying?
A transit is used to measure horizontal and vertical angles in surveying.
1
,What does the term "boundary survey" refer to?
A boundary survey establishes the legal boundaries of a property, often for the purpose of
resolving property disputes or preparing for development.
What is the difference between a topographic survey and a boundary survey?
A topographic survey shows the contours and features of the land, while a boundary survey
determines property boundaries and legal descriptions.
What is the primary function of a geodetic survey?
Geodetic surveys are used to measure large areas of the Earth’s surface, considering its
curvature and employing high precision methods.
What is a datum in surveying?
A datum is a reference point or system used to define locations and elevations in surveying.
What does a contour line on a survey map represent?
A contour line represents a line of equal elevation on a map, showing the terrain’s shape and
slope.
What is a lot survey used for?
A lot survey defines the boundaries, dimensions, and topography of a specific parcel of land,
typically for development purposes.
2
, What is the purpose of a plat map in surveying?
A plat map is a detailed map showing property boundaries, streets, and easements, often used
in real estate transactions.
What is the term for the legal description of property boundaries in surveying?
The legal description is typically called a metes and bounds description, which outlines the
perimeter of a property using reference points.
What is a theodolite used for?
A theodolite is used to measure horizontal and vertical angles, helping to establish precise
locations in land surveying.
What does "adjusting the survey" mean in surveying practice?
Adjusting the survey involves correcting errors in measurements to ensure accuracy and
consistency in the results.
How does a surveyor determine the position of a point relative to a known point?
By using triangulation or trilateration methods, which involve measuring angles and
distances from known reference points.
What are "easements" in the context of land surveying?
3
