1. Which legal description method uses a point of beginning, courses, and distances?
Answer & explanation
Answer: A. Metes and bounds describes boundaries by direction and distance (metes) and markers (bounds), returning to the point of beginning.
property
point of beginning
The point of beginning (POB) is the fixed starting point of a metes and bounds legal description. From the POB, the surveyor describes each boundary line by direction and distance, and the description must return to the POB to close the parcel. The POB is usually tied to a monument or a known reference point, such as a corner of a government survey section, so the parcel can be located precisely.
- Exam tip
- A metes and bounds description must end where it began; if it does not return to the POB, the description is defective.
- Example
- A deed describes a lot starting at an iron pin at the northwest corner of Main and Elm, the POB, running 150 feet east and back around to that pin.
Related terms & state variants
Sources
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Last verified: 2026-10-23