Introduction
Most students think passing the FS or PS exam is all about grinding through practice problems, but the truth is, your success depends just as much on the quality of the resources you use.
One of the biggest mistakes we see from test-takers is relying on outdated books, old practice exams, or materials that no longer reflect the current exam structure. The FS and PS exams evolve over time. New technologies are introduced, some topics become less important, and new competencies are added.
If your study tools don’t match today’s exam, you’re walking into the test at a disadvantage.
In Tip 2, we’ll break down how to gather the exact resources you need, avoid the pitfalls of outdated materials, and build a foundation that will support you through the rest of your exam prep journey.
The Problem With Outdated Materials
Surveying has changed significantly over the past decade, and so have the exams.
Students who use older manuals or unofficial online resources often end up studying topics that no longer appear on the test.
Here are some of the most common issues caused by outdated materials:
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Changes in allowable calculators
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Updated boundary law interpretations
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New measurement standards or updated geodetic content
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Revised problem-solving methods
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Removed topics that are still found in older books
Using old resources means you’re preparing for a test the way it used to be, not the way it is right now.
Why Having All Your Resources Up Front Matters
Gathering everything you need at the beginning does 3 powerful things:
1. It eliminates guesswork
You know exactly which references to use, which formulas matter, and which prep tools to stick with.
2. It prevents you from wasting time mid-study
Searching for missing materials halfway through your prep destroys momentum.
3. It gives you a complete picture of the exam
When you can compare resources side-by-side, the patterns become clear:
what’s new, what’s changed, and what the exam writers care about.
How the FS & PS Exams Have Evolved
Here are real examples of how the exams have changed in recent years:
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Geodesy content expanded with new emphasis on GNSS and modern datums
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Old PLSS questions reduced, replaced with more real-world boundary scenarios
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Calculator rules updated, removing certain models and adding others
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Reference formats changed, altering what’s allowed during testing
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Complexity of math sections increased with more applied problem solving
These shifts are exactly why version control matters. A “good book” isn’t good enough if it’s not current.
How to Gather the Right Materials (The Smart Way)
1. Start with Official, Current Sources
Go directly to:
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NCEES (exam updates, sample questions, reference handbooks)
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Your state board (supplemental material or rule changes)
Download everything, even if you don’t read it yet.
2. Build a Resource Folder
Create a folder labeled:
FS Exam Resources – 2025
PS Exam Resources – 2025
Inside, include:
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NCEES Reference Handbooks
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Sample exams
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Updated boundary law references
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Current calculator policy
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State-specific requirements
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Any updated standards
This will be the “hub” for your entire study plan.
3. Verify Publication Dates
You should never use materials older than:
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3–4 years for FS
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5 years for PS (boundary changes evolve slower, but still change)
If the material is older than that, cross-check it with newer NCEES content.
4. Compare Resources to Identify Gaps
Lay out the materials:
✓ Practice Questions
✓ Handbooks
✓ State-specific guides
✓ Textbooks
✓ Notes
✓ Online modules (like NLC Prep)
Ask yourself:
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What topics appear repeatedly?
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What topics are missing from older books?
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Which resources match the newest blueprint?
This prevents blind spots.
5. Supplement With High-Quality Prep Tools
Your resources should extend beyond just the official exam.
Use materials that:
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Break down difficult concepts
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Explain updated standards
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Include real surveying scenarios
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Offer step-by-step practice solutions
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Reflect the current test blueprint
This is where NLC Prep gives students a major advantage; every module is updated yearly, so students don’t study outdated content.
Common Mistakes Students Make
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Using outdated textbooks scattered around the internet
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Relying solely on YouTube or Reddit explanations (often outdated)
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Waiting too long to gather all materials
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Using only one resource, instead of building a complete set
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Not checking for major updates (2020+ especially)
If you’re using anything older than the newest NCEES handbook, you’re at risk of studying obsolete material.
Pro Tips from NLC Prep
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Always cross-reference the exam blueprint with your study materials.
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Use updated prep courses that align with current exam expectations.
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Build your resource folder before you start your study plan.
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Check the NCEES site for updates at least once during your prep.
Conclusion
Your exam journey shouldn’t feel chaotic or uncertain.
By gathering all your resources upfront, and making sure they’re the newest versions, you set yourself up for an organized, efficient, and successful study experience.
Old materials lead to old results.
Current materials lead to passing scores.
Start strong now so every study session moves you forward.
Call to Action
Ready to make sure you’re studying with the most accurate, up-to-date exam resources?
Schedule a free 15-minute consultation with the NLC Prep team today and get personalized guidance on what materials you need to pass.
