Texas Civil Service Exam — Questions and Answers

Question 1: If 5 clerks file 200 documents in 4 hours, how many documents can 8 clerks file in 6 hours at the same rate?

480 (Correct answer)
420
440
460

Correct answer: 480

Rate per clerk per hour = 200 ÷ (5 × 4) = 10 docs; 8 clerks × 6 hours × 10 = 480 documents.

Question 2: A city in Texas with a population of 10,000 or more that operates a police department must adopt civil service rules under which law?

Texas Government Code Chapter 614
Texas Local Government Code Chapter 143 (Correct answer)
Texas Occupations Code Chapter 1701
Texas Labor Code Chapter 21

Correct answer: Texas Local Government Code Chapter 143

Texas Local Government Code Chapter 143 mandates civil service for police and fire departments in Texas cities meeting the population threshold.

Question 3: Read the following city ordinance and answer the question below. 'City Ordinance 113.8 requires that all residential and commercial properties adjoining a public sidewalk be responsible for the removal of ice, sleet, or snow from that sidewalk within 12 hours of the cessation of any winter weather event. Properties designated as being on a primary emergency route must have sidewalks cleared within 6 hours. The Department of Public Works is authorized to clear sidewalks that remain in violation after the specified time and bill the property owner for the service, in addition to a potential fine not to exceed $150.' A small business is located on a street designated as a primary emergency route. A heavy snowstorm stops at 8:00 AM on Tuesday. By what time must the business owner clear the sidewalk to comply with Ordinance 113.8?

2:00 PM Tuesday (Correct answer)
8:00 AM Wednesday
8:00 PM Tuesday
2:00 AM Wednesday

Correct answer: 2:00 PM Tuesday

The ordinance states that properties on a primary emergency route must have sidewalks cleared within 6 hours of the weather event's cessation. Since the snow stopped at 8:00 AM, adding 6 hours brings the deadline to 2:00 PM on the same day.

Question 4: Which of the following correctly alphabetizes these agency names: 'Dept. of Public Safety', 'Dept. of Public Health', 'Dept. of Public Works', 'Dept. of Public Affairs'?

Health, Affairs, Works, Safety
Affairs, Health, Safety, Works (Correct answer)
Safety, Health, Works, Affairs
Affairs, Works, Safety, Health

Correct answer: Affairs, Health, Safety, Works

Alphabetizing by the distinguishing word: Affairs, Health, Safety, Works — A comes before H, H before S, S before W.

Question 5: Which sentence best uses transitional language to show contrast?

The suspect cooperated fully because the investigation stalled.
The suspect cooperated fully; nevertheless, the investigation stalled. (Correct answer)
The suspect cooperated fully, additionally, the investigation stalled.
The suspect cooperated fully. The investigation stalled.

Correct answer: The suspect cooperated fully; nevertheless, the investigation stalled.

'Nevertheless' signals contrast between the cooperation and the stalled investigation.

Question 6: A circuit has two resistors in parallel: one 4-ohm and one 12-ohm resistor. What is the total resistance?

3 ohms (Correct answer)
8 ohms
16 ohms
4 ohms

Correct answer: 3 ohms

Parallel resistance: 1/R = 1/4 + 1/12 = 3/12 + 1/12 = 4/12, so R = 12/4 = 3 ohms.

Question 7: Under Chapter 143, a classified employee who is reinstated after an unjustified indefinite suspension is entitled to back pay for the suspension period. Which of the following costs may NOT be deducted from that back-pay award?

Income taxes the employee will owe on the award (Correct answer)
Unemployment benefits the employee received
The employee's share of health insurance premiums during suspension
Earnings the employee received from other employment during the suspension

Correct answer: Income taxes the employee will owe on the award

Chapter 143 allows deduction of outside earnings and unemployment benefits from back pay, but income tax liability is not a deductible offset from the reinstatement award.

Question 8: A planning department requires 2 staff members for every 75 building permits processed per month. If the department processed 600 permits last month, how many staff members were required?

24
8
12
16 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 16

This is a ratio problem. First, determine how many sets of 75 permits are in the total of 600. Divide 600 by 75, which equals 8. Since 2 staff members are needed for each set of 75 permits, multiply 8 by 2. This results in 16 staff members required.

Question 9: A Texas state employee covered by Chapter 654 of the Government Code is laid off due to budget cuts. What preference do they receive if rehired within one year?

No special preference
Automatic reinstatement at a higher grade
Reemployment preference over new applicants for comparable positions (Correct answer)
Priority only for the exact same position

Correct answer: Reemployment preference over new applicants for comparable positions

Employees laid off due to reduction in force under Chapter 654 typically receive reemployment preference over new applicants for comparable positions within a specified period.

Question 10: A flat piece of metal is bent as shown: top view looks like an 'L'. When viewed from the front, what shape would you see?

An L-shape
A square
A rectangle (Correct answer)
A triangle

Correct answer: A rectangle

Viewed from the front, the bent L-shape appears as a flat rectangle because the bend goes away from you.

Question 11: A block is shown in a 3D drawing with a hole drilled straight through from front to back. In a top-view drawing, the hole would appear as:

Nothing
A solid circle
Two parallel dashed lines (Correct answer)
A dashed circle

Correct answer: Two parallel dashed lines

Hidden features (not visible from the viewing direction) are shown as dashed lines; a front-to-back hole appears as two dashed lines in the top view.

Question 12: When reading a complex administrative procedure, which of the following is the most effective initial step for ensuring comprehension?

Memorizing the entire document word-for-word.
Focusing only on the numbered steps and ignoring the introduction.
Immediately asking a supervisor to explain the entire procedure.
Skimming the document to identify the main idea, structure, and key terms. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Skimming the document to identify the main idea, structure, and key terms.

Skimming a document first provides a general overview and context. It helps in understanding the purpose, structure, and key vocabulary before diving into the specific details, which leads to better overall comprehension.

Question 13: Under Chapter 143, what is the minimum probationary period for a new police officer or firefighter hired through the civil service process?

3 months
18 months
12 months (Correct answer)
6 months

Correct answer: 12 months

The standard probationary period under Chapter 143 is 12 months, during which the employee can be discharged without the full civil service appeal process.

Question 14: In Texas, a civil service employee who is passed over for promotion despite outscoring other candidates may file what type of complaint?

An appeal alleging violation of the Rule of Three or similar civil service selection rules (Correct answer)
No recourse is available
A grievance with the EEOC only
A lawsuit in federal district court only

Correct answer: An appeal alleging violation of the Rule of Three or similar civil service selection rules

Civil service selection rules, such as the Rule of Three, govern how promotions are made from eligible lists, and violations may be appealed to the civil service commission.

Question 15: A department issues 3 reports every 2 weeks. How many reports will be issued in a 52-week year?

84
78 (Correct answer)
90
72

Correct answer: 78

52 weeks ÷ 2 weeks = 26 periods; 26 × 3 = 78 reports per year.

Question 16: An employee works 37.5 hours per week. How many hours does she work in a 52-week year?

2,080 hours
2,340 hours
1,950 hours (Correct answer)
1,820 hours

Correct answer: 1,950 hours

37.5 × 52 = 1,950 hours worked in a full year.

Question 17: When filing by subject, a document titled 'Annual Report on Employee Benefits — 2025' would be filed under which primary subject heading?

Employee Benefits (Correct answer)
2025 Documents
Annual Reports
Reports, Annual

Correct answer: Employee Benefits

Subject filing prioritizes the main topic of the document, which is 'Employee Benefits,' not the document type or year.

Question 18: A clerk must verify that employee ID numbers are exactly 6 digits. Which of the following is INVALID?

203847
67839 (Correct answer)
100452
984711

Correct answer: 67839

67839 contains only 5 digits, which does not meet the 6-digit requirement.

Question 19: An officer is writing a report and needs to choose the correct sentence. Which of the following sentences is grammatically correct?

The suspect, along with his two accomplices, were seen fleeing the scene.
The team of investigators is gathering facts about the case. (Correct answer)
Each of the vehicles were searched for evidence.
Neither the witnesses nor the victim wants to press charges at this time.

Correct answer: The team of investigators is gathering facts about the case.

The correct answer is 'The team of investigators is gathering facts about the case.' The subject of the sentence is 'team,' which is a singular noun, even though it represents a group of individuals. Therefore, it requires the singular verb 'is.' In the other options, 'suspect' is the singular subject requiring 'was,' 'Each' is a singular pronoun requiring 'was,' and 'victim' is the subject closest to the verb in the 'neither/nor' construction, requiring the singular verb 'wants'.

Question 20: A water main breaks every 45 days on average. Approximately how many breaks occur in one year (365 days)?

9
7
6
8 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 8

365 ÷ 45 ≈ 8.1, which rounds to 8 breaks.

Question 21: A city department budget is $4,800,000. If 35% is allocated to personnel, how much goes to personnel?

$2,160,000
$1,440,000
$1,920,000
$1,680,000 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: $1,680,000

$4,800,000 × 0.35 = $1,680,000 allocated to personnel.

Question 22: A city park covers 3.5 acres. If 1 acre = 43,560 square feet, how many square feet does the park cover?

158,920 sq ft
152,460 sq ft (Correct answer)
144,200 sq ft
130,680 sq ft

Correct answer: 152,460 sq ft

3.5 × 43,560 = 152,460 square feet.

Question 23: Water flows through a pipe at 4 gallons per minute. If the pipe narrows so its cross-section is halved, what happens to the flow velocity?

It quadruples
It halves
It stays the same
It doubles (Correct answer)

Correct answer: It doubles

By the continuity equation, if area is halved and flow rate is constant, velocity must double.

Question 24: Consider the following statements: - Some city vehicles are electric. - All electric vehicles are required to have a charging station inspection sticker. Which of the following statements must be true?

All city vehicles are required to have a charging station inspection sticker.
Some city vehicles are required to have a charging station inspection sticker. (Correct answer)
Most city vehicles are not electric.
If a city vehicle is not electric, it does not need an inspection sticker.

Correct answer: Some city vehicles are required to have a charging station inspection sticker.

Since some city vehicles are electric (Statement 1), and all electric vehicles require a specific sticker (Statement 2), it logically follows that at least some city vehicles (the electric ones) must have that sticker. We cannot conclude anything about all city vehicles, non-electric vehicles, or the proportion of electric to non-electric vehicles.

Question 25: A city manager is writing a memo about a new policy. Which sentence correctly uses the word 'affect' or 'effect'?

The primary affect of the new policy will be improved efficiency.
The new policy will go into effect on Monday and will affect all departments. (Correct answer)
The policy's affect on the budget is not yet known.
We need to determine how the new policy will effect the employees' morale.

Correct answer: The new policy will go into effect on Monday and will affect all departments.

This sentence correctly uses 'effect' as a noun (the result or outcome) in the phrase 'go into effect' and 'affect' as a verb meaning 'to influence'. The other options incorrectly swap these common uses.

Question 26: A records clerk notices that file #4417 is misfiled between files #4421 and #4422. Where should file #4417 be placed?

Between #4416 and #4418 (Correct answer)
Before #4415
Between #4418 and #4419
Between #4415 and #4416

Correct answer: Between #4416 and #4418

File #4417 belongs between #4416 and #4418 in sequential numeric order.

Question 27: A city's crime rate dropped from 480 incidents per month to 372 incidents per month. What is the percent decrease?

25%
22.5% (Correct answer)
20%
27.5%

Correct answer: 22.5%

Decrease = 108; 108 ÷ 480 = 0.225 = 22.5%.

Question 28: In a belt-and-pulley system, a small pulley drives a large pulley. Compared to the small pulley, the large pulley will:

Rotate slower with more torque (Correct answer)
Rotate faster with more torque
Rotate faster with less torque
Rotate slower with less torque

Correct answer: Rotate slower with more torque

A larger driven pulley rotates more slowly than the driver but produces greater torque, trading speed for force.

Question 29: Under Chapter 143, which of the following is a valid basis for the civil service commission to reject an applicant's eligibility for an entrance examination?

Applicant is over 35 years old
Applicant has a felony conviction (Correct answer)
Applicant has prior military service
Applicant lives outside the city limits

Correct answer: Applicant has a felony conviction

A felony conviction is a disqualifying factor; military service, age (within limits), and non-residency at application time are generally not automatic bars.

Question 30: When a supervisor delegates a task to an employee, which of the following remains the supervisor's responsibility?

Completing the task personally if the employee encounters any difficulty
Approving all materials and resources the employee uses
Accountability for the overall outcome of the delegated task (Correct answer)
Documenting every individual step the employee takes

Correct answer: Accountability for the overall outcome of the delegated task

A supervisor can delegate authority to perform a task, but ultimate accountability for the results always remains with the supervisor.

Question 31: Which sentence avoids redundancy?

The past history of the department was reviewed.
The consensus of opinion was unanimous.
The final conclusion of the investigation was submitted.
The investigation concluded with a submitted report. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The investigation concluded with a submitted report.

'Final conclusion,' 'consensus of opinion,' and 'past history' are all redundant phrases.

Question 32: You are given a set of four names to be filed alphabetically. Which name should be filed THIRD? 1. De La Rosa, Maria 2. D'Amico, Vincent 3. Dean, Samuel 4. Delarosa, John

Dean, Samuel (Correct answer)
De La Rosa, Maria
Delarosa, John
D'Amico, Vincent

Correct answer: Dean, Samuel

When alphabetizing, names are treated letter-by-letter. Prefixes like 'De La' are considered part of the surname. Punctuation like apostrophes is ignored. The correct order is: 1. D'Amico (DAMICO), 2. Dean, 3. De La Rosa (DELAROSA), 4. Delarosa. Therefore, 'Dean, Samuel' is filed third.

Question 33: A departmental report includes the following statement: 'While the community policing initiative has shown promising results in fostering better resident relations, a definitive link to a reduction in major crime statistics has not yet been established. Further analysis over a longer period is required to draw firm conclusions.' What is the author's primary purpose in this statement?

To prove that community policing is ineffective at reducing crime.
To celebrate the unqualified success of the new initiative.
To provide a balanced, preliminary assessment and suggest the need for more data. (Correct answer)
To persuade the department to abandon the community policing initiative.

Correct answer: To provide a balanced, preliminary assessment and suggest the need for more data.

The author acknowledges a positive outcome ('fostering better resident relations') but also points out a limitation ('a definitive link to a reduction in major crime... has not yet been established'). The call for 'further analysis' shows the purpose is to offer a cautious, balanced view and recommend continued evaluation.

Question 34: A city clerk must process four permit applications: a zoning variance (Z), a building permit (B), a plumbing permit (P), and an electrical permit (E). The zoning variance must be processed first. The building permit must be processed before the plumbing and electrical permits. Which of the following is a valid processing sequence?

Z, B, E, P (Correct answer)
Z, P, B, E
P, E, Z, B
B, Z, E, P

Correct answer: Z, B, E, P

The rules are: 1) Z must be first. 2) B must come before P and E. Choice A (Z, B, E, P) follows both rules: Z is first, and B comes before both E and P. Choice B is incorrect because Z is not first. Choice C is incorrect because P is processed before B. Choice D is incorrect because Z is not first and B is not before P and E.

Question 35: Under Chapter 143, an eligibility list for an entrance-level position remains valid for how long after it is established?

3 years
1 year
2 years (Correct answer)
6 months

Correct answer: 2 years

An eligibility list under Chapter 143 is valid for two years from the date the list was established.

Question 36: On a topographic map, contour lines that are spaced very close together indicate:

A gentle, gradual slope
A flat valley floor
A depression in the land
A steep terrain feature (Correct answer)

Correct answer: A steep terrain feature

Closely spaced contour lines represent steep terrain because elevation changes rapidly over a short horizontal distance.

Question 37: To be eligible for the City Employee Wellness Program discount, an employee must: (1) be full-time, (2) complete an annual health screening, and (3) attend at least one wellness seminar per quarter. - Employee A is part-time, completed the health screening, and attended two seminars. - Employee B is full-time, did not complete the health screening, and attended four seminars. - Employee C is full-time, completed the health screening, and attended one seminar. Based on these rules, which conclusion is correct?

Employee B is eligible.
Employee A is eligible.
Both Employee B and C are eligible.
Only Employee C is eligible. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Only Employee C is eligible.

This question requires applying a set of rules with 'AND' conditions, meaning all criteria must be met. Employee A is disqualified for being part-time. Employee B is disqualified for not completing the health screening. Employee C is full-time, completed the screening, and attended one seminar, thus meeting all three requirements.

Question 38: A pump moves fluid against gravity up a 20-foot pipe. Which factor most directly determines how much power the pump needs?

The weight of fluid moved per unit time (Correct answer)
The color of the fluid
The material of the pipe
The temperature of the fluid

Correct answer: The weight of fluid moved per unit time

Pump power required = weight flow rate × head (height), so moving heavier fluid or more fluid per minute requires more power.

Question 39: A newly hired police officer, who is not required to attend a basic training academy, begins their employment on February 1st. According to Chapter 143, what is the standard duration of this officer's probationary period during which they do not have full civil service protection?

One year from the date of employment. (Correct answer)
180 days from the date of employment.
Until they complete their first performance review.
Six months from the date of employment.

Correct answer: One year from the date of employment.

Texas Local Government Code Section 143.027(a) specifies that a person appointed to a beginning position in the police or fire department must serve a probationary period of one year from their date of employment.

Question 40: Under Chapter 143, the civil service commission must hold a hearing on a suspended employee's appeal within how many days of receiving the written appeal?

10 days
30 days (Correct answer)
45 days
60 days

Correct answer: 30 days

The commission must begin the hearing on an appeal within 30 days of receiving the employee's written appeal.

Question 41: Identify the sentence with correct subject-verb agreement.

Neither the captain nor the officers was present.
Neither the captain nor the officers is present.
Neither the captain nor the officers were present. (Correct answer)
Neither the captain nor the officers has been present.

Correct answer: Neither the captain nor the officers were present.

When subjects are joined by 'neither...nor,' the verb agrees with the subject closest to it — 'officers' is plural, so 'were' is correct.

Question 42: Which of the following best describes 'mentoring' in the workplace?

A disciplinary intervention program for chronically underperforming employees
A formal annual performance evaluation required by department policy
Assigning additional challenging duties to high-performing employees as a reward
An experienced employee guiding a less experienced employee's professional development (Correct answer)

Correct answer: An experienced employee guiding a less experienced employee's professional development

Mentoring involves a more experienced person providing ongoing guidance, advice, and support to develop a less experienced employee's skills and career trajectory.

Question 43: Five applicants — F, G, H, I, J — are ranked 1 through 5. F ranks higher than G. H ranks lower than I. J ranks between F and H. G ranks 4th. What is F's rank?

5th
1st (Correct answer)
3rd
2nd

Correct answer: 1st

Since G is 4th and F ranks higher than G, F must be 1st, 2nd, or 3rd; placing J between F and H with H below I forces F to 1st.

Question 44: When a supervisor first notices declining performance in an employee, what should be the initial course of action?

Immediately issue a formal written reprimand
Conduct an informal counseling session to discuss the performance issue (Correct answer)
Transfer the employee to a different unit
Recommend the employee for termination proceedings

Correct answer: Conduct an informal counseling session to discuss the performance issue

The first step under progressive discipline principles is an informal counseling session to identify the problem and provide guidance before formal action.

Question 45: A police department's budget for fuel was $120,000 last year. This year, the budget was increased by 5%. What is the fuel budget for this year?

$132,000
$125,000
$120,600
$126,000 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: $126,000

To find the increase amount, calculate 5% of $120,000. Convert the percentage to a decimal (5% = 0.05) and multiply: 0.05 * $120,000 = $6,000. Add this increase to the original budget: $120,000 + $6,000 = $126,000.

Question 46: Which sentence correctly uses a colon?

The supervisor asked for: the incident log.
The officer needed: a flashlight, handcuffs, and a radio.
She submitted: the report before midnight.
There are three requirements for the position: experience, training, and references. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: There are three requirements for the position: experience, training, and references.

A colon is used after a complete independent clause to introduce a list or explanation.

Question 47: A civil service officer needs to reach a location described as '2 blocks east and 3 blocks north' of her current position. If she can only travel along city blocks, what is the minimum number of blocks she must travel?

3 blocks
6 blocks
5 blocks (Correct answer)
2 blocks

Correct answer: 5 blocks

The minimum path is 2 blocks east plus 3 blocks north, totaling 5 blocks regardless of route order.

Question 48: Choose the sentence with correct subject-verb agreement.

Each of the employees is required to attend the training. (Correct answer)
The team of investigators have submitted their findings.
The list of violations were reviewed by the committee.
Neither the captain nor the officers was available.

Correct answer: Each of the employees is required to attend the training.

Indefinite pronouns like 'each' always take a singular verb.

Question 49: Which of the following sentences is grammatically correct and most clearly written?

The police officer saw the motorcycle speeding down the highway. (Correct answer)
Speeding down the highway, the police officer saw the motorcycle.
The motorcycle was seen by the police officer it was speeding down the highway.
Having been seen by the police officer, the highway was sped down by the motorcycle.

Correct answer: The police officer saw the motorcycle speeding down the highway.

This sentence is the most clear and grammatically correct. Answer A contains a misplaced modifier, suggesting the police officer was speeding. Answer C is a run-on sentence. Answer D uses awkward passive voice and is less clear.

Question 50: An applicant scores 82 on a written exam and 88 on the physical fitness test. The written exam counts for 3/4 of the final score and the physical test 1/4. What is the applicant's final score?

83.5 (Correct answer)
83.75
81.0
84.0

Correct answer: 83.5

Final score = (82 × 0.75) + (88 × 0.25) = 61.5 + 22.0 = 83.5.

Question 51: An administrative clerk can file 90 records per hour, while a trainee can file 60 records per hour. If they work together, approximately how long will it take them to file a batch of 750 records?

5.0 hours (Correct answer)
8.3 hours
12.5 hours
3.0 hours

Correct answer: 5.0 hours

First, find the combined work rate of the two individuals. The clerk files 90 records/hour and the trainee files 60 records/hour, so their combined rate is 90 + 60 = 150 records per hour. To find the time it will take to file 750 records, divide the total number of records by their combined rate: 750 / 150 = 5 hours.

Question 52: A block slides down a ramp inclined at 30°. Which force component pulls the block down the slope?

Weight × sin(30°) (Correct answer)
Weight × tan(30°)
Weight × cos(30°)
The full weight of the block

Correct answer: Weight × sin(30°)

The component of gravity along a slope equals weight × sin(angle), which is the force pulling the block down the ramp.

Question 53: Which pair of words is spelled correctly?

occurance, maintenance
occurrance, maintenence
occurrence, maintenance (Correct answer)
occurrence, maintainance

Correct answer: occurrence, maintenance

The correct spellings are 'occurrence' (double c, double r) and 'maintenance' (retain the 'ain' from 'maintain').

Question 54: A county has a population of 250,000. If 3.2% are registered as civil service employees, how many civil service employees are there?

8,000 (Correct answer)
8,500
7,000
7,500

Correct answer: 8,000

250,000 × 0.032 = 8,000 employees.

Question 55: An L-shaped object is rotated 90° clockwise in your mind. If the long arm initially pointed up and the short arm pointed right, after rotation the long arm points:

Down
Left
Up
Right (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Right

Rotating 90° clockwise moves up→right, right→down, so the long arm (originally pointing up) now points right.

Question 56: On a road map, a solid red line typically indicates:

A state or US highway (Correct answer)
A private road
A county road
A dirt road or trail

Correct answer: A state or US highway

Red or orange solid lines on standard road maps indicate major highways including state or US numbered routes.

Question 57: A technician needs to join two metal pipes end-to-end so the connection can be disassembled for maintenance. The best method is:

Welding
Threaded coupling (Correct answer)
Riveting
Brazing

Correct answer: Threaded coupling

Threaded couplings allow pipes to be connected and disconnected repeatedly without damaging the pipe, making maintenance easy.

Question 58: Which sentence is written in the active voice?

The warrant was issued by the judge.
The evidence was collected by the forensic team.
The detective interviewed three witnesses. (Correct answer)
Statements were recorded by the officer.

Correct answer: The detective interviewed three witnesses.

In active voice, the subject ('the detective') performs the action directly.

Question 59: In civil service personnel management, what is the primary purpose of a probationary period?

To determine the employee's appropriate salary grade
To allow the employer to observe and evaluate the new employee's performance (Correct answer)
To introduce the employee to union representatives and benefits
To train the employee in all departmental procedures before full duties begin

Correct answer: To allow the employer to observe and evaluate the new employee's performance

Probationary periods allow supervisors to evaluate whether new employees meet performance standards before granting permanent civil service status.

Question 60: A Texas civil service applicant is found to have falsified information on their application. What is the standard consequence under civil service law?

A formal warning is issued
A fine imposed by the commission
Permanent disqualification from all civil service examinations (Correct answer)
Disqualification from the current examination only

Correct answer: Permanent disqualification from all civil service examinations

Falsification of application materials is typically grounds for permanent disqualification from all civil service examinations and positions, as it constitutes fraud.

Question 61: A cylindrical water tank has a radius of 5 feet and a height of 10 feet. Using π ≈ 3.14, what is its volume?

785 cubic feet (Correct answer)
2,355 cubic feet
1,570 cubic feet
628 cubic feet

Correct answer: 785 cubic feet

Volume = π × r² × h = 3.14 × 25 × 10 = 785 cubic feet.

Question 62: A building inspector reviews 9 buildings in 3 days. At this rate, how many days will it take to review 33 buildings?

9
10
12
11 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 11

9 buildings ÷ 3 days = 3 buildings/day; 33 ÷ 3 = 11 days.

Question 63: Which sentence avoids a run-on error?

The suspect fled the scene; officers gave chase immediately. (Correct answer)
The suspect fled the scene, officers gave chase immediately.
The suspect fled the scene officers gave chase immediately.
The suspect fled the scene and officers gave chase immediately without stopping.

Correct answer: The suspect fled the scene; officers gave chase immediately.

A semicolon correctly separates two independent clauses without a coordinating conjunction.

Question 64: A records office files 24 documents per hour. How many documents are filed in a 7.5-hour workday?

156
180 (Correct answer)
168
172

Correct answer: 180

24 × 7.5 = 180 documents.

Question 65: A Texas civil service employee receives a written reprimand. Under civil service rules, how long must the reprimand typically remain in the employee's official personnel file?

6 months
Indefinitely unless expunged (Correct answer)
1 year
2 years

Correct answer: Indefinitely unless expunged

Written reprimands generally remain in an employee's personnel file indefinitely unless the employee successfully petitions for expungement under applicable civil service rules.

Question 66: A truck that weighs one ton is subject to a tax of $0.11 per pound. What is the total amount of tax money that is due?

$220 (Correct answer)
$330
$110
$0.11

Correct answer: $220

First, convert the truck's weight from tons to pounds, knowing that one ton equals 2,000 pounds. So, a one-ton truck weighs 2,000 pounds. Then, multiply the total weight in pounds by the tax rate per pound: 2,000 pounds × $0.11/pound = $220. This is the total amount of tax due.

Question 67: A police precinct has 48 officers. If 25% are on leave, how many officers are currently on duty?

32
30
36 (Correct answer)
34

Correct answer: 36

48 × 0.25 = 12 on leave; 48 − 12 = 36 on duty.

Question 68: A map grid reference of '5N, 3E' means the location is:

5 units north and 3 units east (Correct answer)
3 units north and 5 units east
3 units south and 5 units east
5 units south and 3 units west

Correct answer: 5 units north and 3 units east

In grid references, the first number (5N) indicates 5 units north, and the second number (3E) indicates 3 units east.

Question 69: In the list below, how many pairs of employee ID numbers are identical? - 84511092 / 84511092 - 6739021B / 6739021B - 44582G71 / 44582G17 - 9012-45A3 / 9012-45A3 - 337618P0 / 33761BP0

3 (Correct answer)
4
5
2

Correct answer: 3

There are exactly three identical pairs. The first pair (84511092), second pair (6739021B), and fourth pair (9012-45A3) are exact matches. The third pair has transposed characters (71 vs 17), and the fifth pair confuses a letter and a number (8P0 vs BP0).

Question 70: An officer must complete 40 hours of training in 5 weeks. If she trains 6 hours in the first week, how many hours per week must she average for the remaining 4 weeks?

8.0
9.0
7.5
8.5 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 8.5

40 − 6 = 34 hours remaining; 34 ÷ 4 = 8.5 hours/week.

Question 71: All city inspectors must pass a background check. Ramon passed a background check. What can be logically concluded?

Ramon is not a city inspector
Ramon is a city inspector
Ramon may or may not be a city inspector (Correct answer)
Ramon will become a city inspector

Correct answer: Ramon may or may not be a city inspector

Passing the background check is a necessary condition for inspectors, but passing it does not confirm Ramon is one.

Question 72: A Texas civil service rule prohibiting discrimination in employment most directly implements which federal law?

The Hatch Act
The Fair Labor Standards Act
Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Correct answer)
The National Labor Relations Act

Correct answer: Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964

Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits employment discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin, and civil service rules must conform to this federal mandate.

Question 73: A municipal department uses the following coding system for its internal forms: the first digit is the department number (2=Finance, 4=Parks, 6=Water), followed by a letter indicating the form type (A=Request, B=Report, C=Complaint), and ending with the last two digits of the current year. Which code is correct for a Complaint form filed with the Parks department in 2026?

6C20
4C26 (Correct answer)
4B26
2A26

Correct answer: 4C26

The code is built in three parts: Department (Parks = 4), Form Type (Complaint = C), and Year (last two digits of 2026 = 26). Combining these parts in the correct order results in the code 4C26.

Question 74: Which of the following sentences uses punctuation correctly?

The parks department, is responsible for three main areas, maintenance, programming, and public safety.
The parks department is responsible for three main areas, maintenance programming and public safety.
The parks department is responsible for three main areas; maintenance, programming, and public safety.
The parks department is responsible for three main areas: maintenance, programming, and public safety. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The parks department is responsible for three main areas: maintenance, programming, and public safety.

A colon is used correctly here to introduce a list that follows an independent clause. Answer A incorrectly uses a semicolon, which is typically used to connect two related independent clauses. Answer C uses commas incorrectly, separating the subject from its verb. Answer D is missing a comma after 'programming' in the series.

Question 75: A city allocates $120,000 for road repairs, spending $8,500 each month. After 9 months, how much budget remains?

$41,500
$43,500 (Correct answer)
$44,500
$46,000

Correct answer: $43,500

$8,500 × 9 = $76,500 spent; $120,000 − $76,500 = $43,500.

Question 76: An officer travels 12 miles north, then 16 miles east. How far is the officer from the starting point?

24 miles
20 miles (Correct answer)
18 miles
28 miles

Correct answer: 20 miles

Using the Pythagorean theorem: √(12² + 16²) = √(144 + 256) = √400 = 20 miles.

Question 77: Which word correctly completes the sentence: 'The officer _____ the suspect's alibi before making an arrest.'

verifyed
verifyied
verified (Correct answer)
verifed

Correct answer: verified

'Verified' is the correct past tense of 'verify'; the -fy ending changes to -fied.

Question 78: A city department has a budget of $48,000 for the year. If 35% is spent in Q1 and 25% in Q2, how much remains for Q3 and Q4?

$21,600
$19,200 (Correct answer)
$14,400
$16,800

Correct answer: $19,200

35% + 25% = 60% spent, so 40% remains: 0.40 × $48,000 = $19,200.

Question 79: Which of the following actions by a civil service commission member would constitute a conflict of interest requiring recusal?

Having read news coverage about the disciplinary case
Belonging to the same professional association as the employee
Having met the appealing employee once at a public event
Being a close relative of the appealing employee (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Being a close relative of the appealing employee

A familial relationship between a commission member and an appealing employee creates a direct conflict of interest that requires recusal to ensure impartiality.

Question 80: A city department has a budget of $48,000 for the year. After 8 months, $34,000 has been spent. What percentage of the budget remains?

41.7%
22.5%
29.2% (Correct answer)
37.5%

Correct answer: 29.2%

Remaining = $48,000 - $34,000 = $14,000; percentage = 14,000 / 48,000 × 100 ≈ 29.2%.

Question 81: Which sentence correctly distinguishes 'its' from 'it's'?

The department updated it's records last quarter.
The agency revised its procedures after the audit. (Correct answer)
The vehicle lost it's registration sticker.
Its important to submit reports on time.

Correct answer: The agency revised its procedures after the audit.

'Its' is the possessive pronoun showing the agency owns the procedures; 'it's' is a contraction of 'it is.'

Question 82: Which of the following words is spelled INCORRECTLY?

Maintainence (Correct answer)
Mischievous
Conscientious
Belligerent

Correct answer: Maintainence

The word 'Maintainence' is spelled incorrectly. The correct spelling is 'maintenance.' This is a common spelling error tested on civil service exams.

Question 83: Which of the following sentences uses apostrophes correctly?

The departments' goals are outlined in their mission statements'.
All employee's must complete their timesheets by 5 o'clock.
Its important to review the citys' new zoning laws.
The public works department's responsibilities include maintaining the city's streets. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The public works department's responsibilities include maintaining the city's streets.

This sentence correctly uses 'department's' as a singular possessive noun and 'city's' as a singular possessive noun. Answer A confuses 'Its' (possessive) with 'It's' (contraction for 'it is') and incorrectly forms the possessive of 'city'. Answer B incorrectly uses a plural possessive for 'department' and adds an unnecessary apostrophe to 'statements'. Answer C incorrectly uses a possessive 'employee's' instead of the plural 'employees'.

Question 84: A criminal record database contains 8,400 records. If 12.5% are flagged for review, how many records are flagged?

1,200
1,000
1,050 (Correct answer)
900

Correct answer: 1,050

8,400 × 0.125 = 1,050 records flagged for review.

Question 85: When a municipal civil service commission is established under Chapter 143, how many commissioners must be appointed?

9
3 (Correct answer)
7
5

Correct answer: 3

A civil service commission under Chapter 143 consists of three members appointed by the governing body of the municipality.

Question 86: Read the following argument: 'The city's recycling program has seen a 10% increase in participation each of the last two years. Therefore, the program's participation will increase by 10% again this year.' Which of the following statements best describes the flaw in this reasoning?

The argument assumes that a past trend will necessarily continue into the future. (Correct answer)
The argument attacks the character of the people who run the recycling program.
The argument concludes that the program is successful without defining success.
The argument incorrectly uses data about participation to draw a conclusion about cost.

Correct answer: The argument assumes that a past trend will necessarily continue into the future.

This is an example of flawed inductive reasoning, specifically a hasty generalization or extrapolation. While the past trend is noted, there is no guarantee that it will continue. External factors could change, or the growth could level off. The argument's flaw is assuming the future will be exactly like the past.

Question 87: A road project is 60% complete after 9 months. At this rate, how many total months will the project take?

15 months (Correct answer)
13 months
18 months
12 months

Correct answer: 15 months

9 months represents 60%; total = 9 ÷ 0.60 = 15 months.

Question 88: According to sound supervisory principles, how should a supervisor respond to an employee who consistently exceeds performance expectations?

Assign the employee additional duties without providing extra compensation or recognition
Caution the employee to maintain a consistent pace rather than setting a precedent
Recognize the achievement and provide opportunities for advancement or professional growth (Correct answer)
Transfer the employee to a more demanding assignment without prior discussion

Correct answer: Recognize the achievement and provide opportunities for advancement or professional growth

Recognizing outstanding performance and offering growth opportunities reinforces excellent behavior, sustains motivation, and helps retain top organizational talent.

Question 89: A government office orders supplies costing $340. If there is a 15% discount, what is the final cost?

$272
$295
$306
$289 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: $289

$340 × 0.15 = $51 discount; $340 − $51 = $289.

Question 90: A clerk must code documents using the first three letters of the subject's last name followed by their birth year. How would 'Williams, born 1989' be coded?

WLL-1989
WIL-89
WIL-1989 (Correct answer)
WIL89

Correct answer: WIL-1989

The first three letters of Williams are 'WIL' and the full birth year is 1989, giving code WIL-1989.

Question 91: Under Chapter 143, if a department head reduces a classified employee in rank during a reduction in force, what criterion must be used to determine who is reduced?

Physical fitness scores
Educational credentials
Performance ratings
Seniority (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Seniority

Reductions in force under Chapter 143 must be based on seniority, with the least senior employees reduced first.

Question 92: If a wheel with a 12-inch radius is attached to an axle with a 3-inch radius, what is the mechanical advantage?

4 (Correct answer)
2
6
3

Correct answer: 4

Mechanical advantage of a wheel and axle = wheel radius / axle radius = 12/3 = 4.

Question 93: Under Chapter 143, what percentage of an entrance examination score may be added for verified military service to a veteran applicant?

15%
5%
10% (Correct answer)
2%

Correct answer: 10%

Veterans who served on active duty and were honorably discharged may receive a 10% addition to their entrance examination score under Chapter 143.

Question 94: Choose the option that correctly uses 'fewer' vs. 'less.'

There were less officers on patrol during the holiday.
The report contained less errors after revision.
Fewer complaints were filed this quarter than last. (Correct answer)
She has fewer experience than her colleague.

Correct answer: Fewer complaints were filed this quarter than last.

'Fewer' is used with countable nouns like 'complaints,' while 'less' is used with uncountable quantities.

Question 95: Between the months of April and May, what was the percentage increase in the value of the oil that was produced?

-15.42% (Correct answer)
-38.33%
-27.78%
-4.85%

Correct answer: -15.42%

To find the percentage increase, you need the value of oil produced in April and May from the provided data. Assuming April's value was $1,750,000 and May's was $1,480,000, the change is $1,480,000 - $1,750,000 = -$270,000. The percentage change is calculated as (Change / Original Value) * 100, which is (-$270,000 / $1,750,000) * 100 = -15.42%. The negative sign indicates a decrease in value.

Question 96: Which sentence correctly uses a colon?

The officer needed: a flashlight, a radio, and a notepad.
The officer needed the following: items a flashlight, a radio, and a notepad.
The officer needed a flashlight, a radio: and a notepad.
The officer needed the following items: a flashlight, a radio, and a notepad. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The officer needed the following items: a flashlight, a radio, and a notepad.

A colon is correctly placed after a complete independent clause to introduce a list.

Question 97: A patrol officer drives 240 miles in 4 hours. What is the average speed in miles per hour?

55 mph
65 mph
50 mph
60 mph (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 60 mph

Average speed = total distance ÷ total time = 240 ÷ 4 = 60 mph.

Question 98: An officer's shift runs from 7:45 AM to 4:15 PM with a 30-minute unpaid lunch break. How many paid hours does the officer work?

9.0 hours
8.0 hours (Correct answer)
8.5 hours
7.5 hours

Correct answer: 8.0 hours

Total shift = 8 hours 30 min = 8.5 hrs; subtract 0.5 hrs unpaid lunch = 8.0 paid hours.

Question 99: Which management function involves setting organizational goals and determining the best course of action to achieve them?

Organizing
Planning (Correct answer)
Directing
Controlling

Correct answer: Planning

Planning is the management function of establishing objectives and determining the strategies, policies, and procedures needed to achieve organizational goals.

Question 100: A city ordinance requires a ratio of at least 3 police officers for every 1,000 residents. The city's current population is 150,000, and the police department currently has 440 officers on staff. How many additional officers must be hired to meet the minimum requirement?

15
0
10 (Correct answer)
450

Correct answer: 10

First, calculate the minimum number of officers required for the population: (150,000 residents / 1,000) * 3 officers = 150 * 3 = 450 officers. Then, subtract the current number of officers from the required number to find the deficit: 450 (required) - 440 (current) = 10 additional officers.

Texas Civil Service Exam

The Texas Civil Service Exam exam validates essential knowledge and skills required for certification or licensure in this field.

100

Questions

120 min

Time Limit

70%

To Pass

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