Plane tabling workflow: when do plotting and observation occur? While surveying a plot of land by plane tabling, which of the following is true regarding the workflow of observations and plotting?

Introduction / Context:
Plane tabling is designed for on-site plotting of details. Unlike theodolite traversing where readings are booked and plotted later, plane tabling allows the surveyor to draw lines and locate points directly on the sheet as they are observed. This question tests your understanding of that fundamental feature.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Standard plane table with alidade is used.
• The board is centered, leveled, and oriented at each station.
• Rays are drawn to detail points as they are sighted.

Concept / Approach:

Because the drawing sheet is on the instrument, observations and plotting are simultaneous. This integration is the key advantage: errors in plotting can be detected on the spot, and omitted details are less likely. While supplementary notes may be taken, the essential plotting is not deferred.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

Method descriptions—radiation, intersection, resection—explicitly combine observation and drawing steps at the instrument.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

“Do not proceed simultaneously” and “plotted later” describe other survey methods, not plane tabling.

“All of the above” cannot be true as the options are mutually exclusive.

Common Pitfalls:

Failing to re-check orientation during multi-station work; inadequate control leading to distortions even though plotting is simultaneous.

Final Answer:

Observations and plotting proceed simultaneously at the board