10 exam-style questions with answers and explanations, straight from our 1,030-question bank. Tap an answer to check yourself. When you're ready, take the scored version in the free practice test.
The CST exam has 200 questions and runs 4 hours.
These 10 free CST questions are organized by exam domain, so you can see how each part of the Certified Survey Technician Level I blueprint is tested. Reveal the answer and explanation under each question.
After a retaining wall is completed, a crew measures the positions and elevations of its ends and top for comparison with the approved design. Which survey type most specifically matches this assignment?
Correct answer: C - As-built survey
On the first setup of the morning, a total station displays "tilt out of range." The tripod is secure, but fine leveling is not yet complete. How should the operator respond?
Correct answer: B - Complete fine leveling, then verify centering over the mark.
A total station is centered and leveled over a control point whose coordinates are known. The operator sights a tree of unknown direction and sets the horizontal circle to zero. Before collecting coordinates in the project grid, the setup still needs:
Correct answer: D - A backsight observation tied to an established direction.
During a foresight, the rod foot stays on the turning point while the top leans toward the level. The line of sight is horizontal and the instrument remains undisturbed. Using this reading as though the rod were vertical would make the turning-point elevation:
Correct answer: C - Too low, because leaning the rod produces a larger reading.
A grading plan requires NAVD 88 elevations. BM-A has a checked NAVD 88 elevation that meets the project accuracy requirement, but its horizontal coordinates are approximate. CP-B has precise horizontal coordinates and only an ellipsoid height. Both marks are undisturbed. Which mark can supply the starting elevation for differential leveling?
Correct answer: A - BM-A, because its verified elevation meets the project's vertical requirements.
A grading crew needs a cut/fill mark to subgrade. All level notes are in meters on the same datum. Setup 1 has a backsight of 1.320 on a benchmark at 100.000 and a foresight of 2.185 on a turning point. Setup 2 has a backsight of 0.865 on that turning point and an upright rod reading of 1.540 at the grading point. The plan lists subgrade at 98.200 m and finished pavement at 98.450 m. What mark is required, to the nearest 0.001 m?
Correct answer: A - Cut 0.260 m
An instrument export lists a slope distance of 200.000 ft, a zenith angle of 78°00′00″ from upward vertical, and a vertical angle of +12°00′00″ above horizontal. The coordinate worksheet requires horizontal distance, with no scale correction. Select the entry to the nearest 0.01 ft.
Correct answer: C - 195.63 ft
An equipment log calls an EDM accurate because its repeated readings agree closely. However, checks against an independently established distance consistently give a longer result, even after the instrument is set up again. Which assessment is justified?
Correct answer: B - The readings are repeatable, but the common offset needs investigation.
On a north-up topographic map, contours form V-shaped bends as they cross a natural stream; the tips point north. Contours are closer together on the western valley side than on the eastern side. The map scale and contour interval are constant. Which description fits the terrain?
Correct answer: B - Flow is southward; the western slope is steeper.
After carrying equipment uphill on a hot afternoon, a crew member is sweating heavily but becomes confused and cannot follow simple instructions. He is breathing normally. A coworker has called 911, and cold water is available. What care should a trained first-aider provide while help is coming?
Correct answer: D - Cool him rapidly with cold water and monitor his breathing.
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