In the standard U.S. rectangular survey 36 section township, the sections are numbered:
Correct Answer
A) Beginning at the northeast corner and running in a serpentine pattern
In the standard U.S. rectangular survey township, the numbering starts with 1 at the northeast corner, runs west to 6, then east on the next row, and snakes back and forth to 36 at the southeast corner. Confirm actual survey records for nonstandard or historical exceptions.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
Option A is correct because standard township sections are numbered beginning at the northeast corner and running in a serpentine pattern. Section 1 is in the northeast corner, numbers run west to 6, then east on the next row from 7 to 12, and so on until 36 in the southeast corner. Actual survey records should be checked for nonstandard or historical exceptions.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option B: Clockwise around the township's outer perimeter first
Option B numbers clockwise around the township's outer perimeter first. Standard numbering goes row by row in a back-and-forth pattern, not around the edge.
Option C: From the southwest corner directly eastward in rows
Option C starts at the southwest corner and runs directly eastward in rows. Standard numbering starts at the northeast corner, and rows alternate direction rather than all running east.
Option D: Randomly, according to the order in which each was originally surveyed
Option D numbers sections randomly by the order in which each was surveyed. Standard township sections follow a fixed serpentine pattern, not survey order.
Plow like an ox
Start at the top right, plow west across the first row, turn and plow east on the next, and keep snaking down to 36 at the bottom right.
How to use: Use this to picture where any section number falls in a township.
Exam Tip
Remember Section 1 is in the northeast corner and Section 36 is in the southeast corner, with rows alternating direction.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- -Starting the numbering in the southwest or northwest corner
- -Numbering every row in the same direction
- -Placing Section 36 in the southwest corner
Concept Deep Dive
Analysis
This question tests section numbering in a standard 36-section township of the rectangular survey system. Numbering starts with Section 1 in the northeast corner, runs west to 6, drops down and runs east, and continues back and forth to Section 36 in the southeast corner. That back-and-forth path is the serpentine pattern.
Background Knowledge
The rectangular survey system divides land into townships about six miles square, each containing 36 sections of about one square mile. Sections are numbered in a fixed back-and-forth sequence so any section can be located from its number. This system is used in many states, while others rely mainly on metes and bounds.
Real-World Application
An appraiser in a rural market receives a legal description referencing Section 6 of a township. Knowing the numbering pattern, the appraiser recognizes Section 6 as the northwest corner section and uses survey maps to confirm the parcel's location.
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