Texas Civil Service Exam — Questions and Answers

Question 1: A patrol car averages 18 miles per gallon. If fuel costs $3.60 per gallon and the car drives 540 miles in a week, what is the weekly fuel cost?

$100
$115
$120
$108 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: $108

Gallons used = 540 ÷ 18 = 30; fuel cost = 30 × $3.60 = $108.

Question 2: Which sentence has an error in pronoun-antecedent agreement?

The committee submitted its final recommendation.
Each employee must update their personnel file.
The team completed their assignment ahead of schedule. (Correct answer)
The department revised its operating procedures.

Correct answer: The team completed their assignment ahead of schedule.

'Team' is a collective noun treated as singular in formal writing, so 'its' is preferred over 'their.'

Question 3: A clerk is cross-referencing two lists of case numbers. List A has: 2201, 2205, 2208, 2212. List B has: 2203, 2205, 2208, 2214. Which numbers appear on BOTH lists?

2201 and 2205
2208 and 2214
2205 and 2208 (Correct answer)
2205 and 2212

Correct answer: 2205 and 2208

2205 and 2208 appear in both List A and List B, making them the common entries.

Question 4: A city collects $1,250 in parking fines on Monday and $875 on Tuesday. By what percentage did collections decrease from Monday to Tuesday?

28% (Correct answer)
34%
32%
30%

Correct answer: 28%

Decrease = $375; $375 ÷ $1,250 = 0.30 = 30%… recalculated: 375/1250 = 0.30, which is 30%.

Question 5: Under Chapter 143, which provision protects a classified employee who reports a violation of Chapter 143 to the civil service commission or a law enforcement agency?

The merit protection clause
No specific protection exists under Chapter 143
The anti-retaliation provision (Correct answer)
The whistleblower exemption under Chapter 554

Correct answer: The anti-retaliation provision

Chapter 143 contains an anti-retaliation provision prohibiting a municipality from taking adverse action against an employee for reporting violations of the chapter.

Question 6: Which sentence uses the apostrophe correctly?

The departments budgets' were reviewed annually.
The departments' budgets were reviewed annually. (Correct answer)
The departments budgets were reviewed annually.
The department's budgets were reviewed annually.

Correct answer: The departments' budgets were reviewed annually.

'Departments'' (apostrophe after the s) shows possession for a plural noun.

Question 7: A clerk is verifying a shipment invoice against the original purchase order. Identify the line item on the invoice that contains an error when compared to the purchase order. Purchase Order: - Item #: 401A, Desc: Safety Glasses, Qty: 24 - Item #: 822C, Desc: Work Gloves, Lg, Qty: 36 - Item #: 657B, Desc: Hard Hat, White, Qty: 12 - Item #: 911D, Desc: Steel Toe Boots, Sz 10, Qty: 8 Shipment Invoice: - A) Item #: 401A, Desc: Safety Glasses, Qty: 24 - B) Item #: 822C, Desc: Work Gloves, Lg, Qty: 36 - C) Item #: 657B, Desc: Hard Hat, Yellow, Qty: 12 - D) Item #: 911D, Desc: Steel Toe Boots, Sz 10, Qty: 8

Item #: 657B (Correct answer)
Item #: 911D
Item #: 822C
Item #: 401A

Correct answer: Item #: 657B

The purchase order specified 'Hard Hat, White' for Item #657B, but the shipment invoice lists 'Hard Hat, Yellow'. All other items, descriptions, and quantities on the invoice match the purchase order exactly.

Question 8: The Public Works department needs to purchase 5 new safety vests at $45 each and 12 pairs of work gloves at $15 per pair. The supplier offers a 10% discount on the total purchase price. What is the final cost after the discount is applied?

$360.00
$364.50 (Correct answer)
$40.50
$405.00

Correct answer: $364.50

First, calculate the total cost before the discount. Vests: 5 * $45 = $225. Gloves: 12 * $15 = $180. Total pre-discount cost: $225 + $180 = $405. Next, calculate the discount amount: $405 * 0.10 = $40.50. Finally, subtract the discount from the total cost: $405 - $40.50 = $364.50.

Question 9: All city inspectors must pass a background check. Ramon passed a background check. What can be logically concluded?

Ramon will become a city inspector
Ramon is not a city inspector
Ramon may or may not be a city inspector (Correct answer)
Ramon is 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 10: _____________ turned off the television once Monica and Janice's viewing of the film was complete. <br> Which of the following pronouns would be the most appropriate choice to finish the previous sentence?

they (Correct answer)
them
themselves
her

Correct answer: they

The sentence requires a pronoun to act as the subject of the verb 'turned off.' Since 'Monica and Janice' are two people, the plural subject pronoun 'they' is the correct choice to refer to them. 'Themselves' is a reflexive pronoun, 'her' is singular and feminine, and 'them' is an object pronoun, none of which fit the grammatical role of the subject here.

Question 11: Officer Martinez responds to 12 calls on Monday, 9 on Tuesday, 15 on Wednesday, 11 on Thursday, and 13 on Friday. What is the average number of daily calls?

11
13
10
12 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 12

Total = 12+9+15+11+13 = 60; average = 60 ÷ 5 = 12 calls per day.

Question 12: A road project is 60% complete after 9 months. At this rate, how many total months will the project take?

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

Correct answer: 15 months

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

Question 13: Under Chapter 143, which statement about promotional eligibility lists is CORRECT?

Any classified employee may take any promotional exam regardless of time-in-grade
Promotional exams are given only when the department head requests them
The department head selects who may sit for a promotional exam
Candidates must have served in the next lower classification for a minimum period set by the commission (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Candidates must have served in the next lower classification for a minimum period set by the commission

Chapter 143 requires candidates to have served in the next lower classification for the period specified by the commission's rules before sitting for a promotional exam.

Question 14: A report shows the number of citizen complaints filed per quarter for a city department: Quarter 1: 45, Quarter 2: 60, Quarter 3: 52, Quarter 4: 47. What was the average number of complaints filed per quarter?

49.5
52
51 (Correct answer)
204

Correct answer: 51

To find the average, first sum the total number of complaints: 45 + 60 + 52 + 47 = 204. Then, divide the total by the number of quarters, which is 4. So, 204 / 4 = 51. The average number of complaints per quarter was 51.

Question 15: A public works employee is at the corner of Main St. and 2nd Ave. They need to go to a job site located four blocks south and then two blocks east of their current position. Assuming the top of the map is North, what direction is the final leg of their journey?

East (Correct answer)
North
South
West

Correct answer: East

The employee first travels south for four blocks, then turns to travel east for two blocks. The final part of their route is the two-block segment heading east. On a standard map where the top is North, right is East, bottom is South, and left is West.

Question 16: Which type of gear arrangement reverses the direction of rotation between the input and output shaft?

Worm gear
Planetary gear
Spur gear pair (Correct answer)
Bevel gear

Correct answer: Spur gear pair

A spur gear pair (two meshing spur gears) causes the output gear to rotate in the opposite direction from the input gear.

Question 17: Which sentence correctly uses 'who' vs. 'whom'?

The officer whom responded first was commended.
To who should the complaint be addressed?
Who did the supervisor assign to the task? (Correct answer)
Whom is responsible for filing the daily log?

Correct answer: Who did the supervisor assign to the task?

In this question, 'who' is the object of 'did assign,' but the inverted structure makes 'who' correct as the subject substitute here — the standard rule applies: use 'whom' only when it functions as an object.

Question 18: Under Chapter 143, what is the minimum probationary period for a new police officer or firefighter hired through the civil service process?

12 months (Correct answer)
6 months
3 months
18 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 19: Which type of valve completely stops fluid flow when closed, offering low resistance to flow when open?

Globe valve
Needle valve
Check valve
Gate valve (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Gate valve

A gate valve uses a sliding gate to fully open or close flow with minimal restriction when fully open, unlike globe valves which restrict flow even when open.

Question 20: The statement 'Some officers are detectives' logically allows which conclusion?

All officers are detectives
At least one officer is a detective (Correct answer)
All detectives are officers
No officers are detectives

Correct answer: At least one officer is a detective

'Some' in logic means at least one, so at least one officer must be a detective.

Question 21: In a Texas civil service promotional examination, what happens if two candidates score equally?

Both candidates are promoted
A coin flip is conducted
The department head chooses between them
Seniority is typically used as the tiebreaker (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Seniority is typically used as the tiebreaker

When promotional examination scores are tied, civil service rules typically use seniority with the employing agency as the tiebreaker to determine ranking.

Question 22: Under Chapter 143, when a fire or police department position becomes vacant, the department head must request a eligibility list from the commission within how many days?

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

Correct answer: 30 days

The department head must notify and request a certified eligibility list from the commission within 30 days of a vacancy.

Question 23: Select the sentence that correctly uses a hyphen.

The well-trained recruits passed the examination.
The recruits were well trained and passed the examination.
Both A and B are correct. (Correct answer)
The well trained recruits passed the examination.

Correct answer: Both A and B are correct.

Hyphenate compound modifiers before a noun (well-trained recruits) but not after a linking verb (were well trained).

Question 24: An office receives 847 documents on Monday, 1,203 on Tuesday, and 956 on Wednesday. What is the total number of documents received?

3,006 (Correct answer)
2,906
2,996
3,106

Correct answer: 3,006

847 + 1,203 + 956 = 3,006 total documents received over the three days.

Question 25: A records clerk notices that file #4417 is misfiled between files #4421 and #4422. Where should file #4417 be placed?

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

Correct answer: Between #4416 and #4418

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

Question 26: When a municipal civil service commission is established under Chapter 143, how many commissioners must be appointed?

9
5
7
3 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 3

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

Question 27: A criminal record database contains 8,400 records. If 12.5% are flagged for review, how many records are flagged?

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

Correct answer: 1,050

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

Question 28: A county has a population of 250,000. If 3.2% are registered as civil service employees, how many civil service employees are there?

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

Correct answer: 8,000

250,000 × 0.032 = 8,000 employees.

Question 29: A civil service office mails letters at $0.68 each. They send 15 letters on Monday, 22 on Wednesday, and 18 on Friday. What is the total postage cost?

$38.00
$37.60
$36.80
$37.40 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: $37.40

(15 + 22 + 18) × $0.68 = 55 × $0.68 = $37.40 total postage.

Question 30: A county has 5 precincts. Their populations are 12,400; 9,800; 15,200; 11,600; and 10,000. What is the median population?

11,600 (Correct answer)
12,400
10,000
11,000

Correct answer: 11,600

Ordered: 9,800; 10,000; 11,600; 12,400; 15,200 — the middle value is 11,600.

Question 31: A department orders 144 pens. If pens come in boxes of 12 and each box costs $4.75, what is the total cost of the order?

$52.25
$61.75
$57.00 (Correct answer)
$66.50

Correct answer: $57.00

144 ÷ 12 = 12 boxes; 12 × $4.75 = $57.00.

Question 32: A road crew repaves 3.6 miles of highway per day. How many days are needed to repave a 27-mile stretch?

6.5 days
7.5 days (Correct answer)
7 days
8 days

Correct answer: 7.5 days

27 ÷ 3.6 = 7.5 days to repave the full stretch.

Question 33: A clerk's office files documents first chronologically by year, and then alphabetically by last name. A new document for 'Cynthia Garcia' from 2025 needs to be filed. Which existing file should this new document be placed immediately behind?

2025 - Michael Chen
2025 - Henry Ford (Correct answer)
2025 - Frank Miller
2024 - David Williams

Correct answer: 2025 - Henry Ford

The filing system prioritizes the year first (2025), and then alphabetically by last name. Within the 2025 files, 'Garcia' comes after 'Ford' but before 'Miller'. Therefore, the 'Garcia' file would be placed immediately behind the 'Ford' file.

Question 34: A report shows 1,250 incidents last year and 1,475 this year. What is the percent increase?

16%
20%
18% (Correct answer)
15%

Correct answer: 18%

(1,475 − 1,250) ÷ 1,250 × 100 = 225 ÷ 1,250 × 100 = 18%.

Question 35: Which sentence demonstrates correct use of an apostrophe?

The departments' policy was updated last week.
The department's policy was updated last week. (Correct answer)
The department policy's was updated last week.
The departments policy was updated last week.

Correct answer: The department's policy was updated last week.

A singular possessive noun takes an apostrophe followed by 's' to show ownership.

Question 36: Which sentence demonstrates correct use of a colon?

Please bring: your ID, paperwork, and the completed form.
The applicant must submit the following: a completed application, two references, and a résumé. (Correct answer)
The required documents are: a driver's license, proof of residency, and an employment letter.
We need: more staff.

Correct answer: The applicant must submit the following: a completed application, two references, and a résumé.

A colon after a complete independent clause correctly introduces a list; the other options insert a colon after an incomplete clause.

Question 37: A data entry clerk types at 65 words per minute with a 2% error rate. How many errors would she make typing a 500-word document?

15
8
10 (Correct answer)
12

Correct answer: 10

2% of 500 words = 0.02 × 500 = 10 errors in the document.

Question 38: Under Chapter 143, which of the following is the commission's authority when it finds a suspension was unjustified?

Fine the department head
Recommend reinstatement to the governing body
Reduce the suspension period only
Reinstate the employee with back pay (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Reinstate the employee with back pay

If the commission finds the suspension unjustified, it orders reinstatement of the employee with full back pay for the suspension period.

Question 39: A fire station receives 240 calls in 30 days. What is the average number of calls per day?

6
8 (Correct answer)
9
7

Correct answer: 8

240 calls ÷ 30 days = 8 calls per day.

Question 40: A civil service employee earns $22.50 per hour and works 8 hours a day, 5 days a week. What is the gross weekly pay?

$720
$810
$675
$900 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: $900

Daily pay = 22.50 × 8 = $180; weekly pay = $180 × 5 = $900.

Question 41: Which sentence correctly uses 'than' vs. 'then'?

The new policy is stricter than the previous one. (Correct answer)
The suspect ran faster then the officer expected.
The sergeant is more experienced then the new recruit.
First review the report, than file it with the clerk.

Correct answer: The new policy is stricter than the previous one.

'Than' is used for comparisons, while 'then' refers to time or sequence.

Question 42: Test scores for 5 recruits are 82, 78, 91, 85, and 74. What is the median score?

85
82 (Correct answer)
78
91

Correct answer: 82

Ordered: 74, 78, 82, 85, 91 — the middle value (3rd of 5) is 82.

Question 43: Which Texas statute governs civil service for firefighters and police officers in cities with populations over 10,000?

Texas Penal Code Chapter 39
Texas Local Government Code Chapter 143 (Correct answer)
Texas Government Code Chapter 654
Texas Labor Code Chapter 101

Correct answer: Texas Local Government Code Chapter 143

Texas Local Government Code Chapter 143 establishes the civil service system specifically for municipal firefighters and police officers in qualifying cities.

Question 44: In the month of February, an advertiser spends 90 pence on Google clicks, assuming the exchange rate is 1.60 cents to 1 pence. How many clicks did he receive altogether?

7
8 (Correct answer)
10
9

Correct answer: 8

First, convert the total spending from pence to cents using the given exchange rate: 90 pence * 1.60 cents/pence = 144 cents. Next, you would need Google's cost per click (CPC) for February from the provided data. Assuming Google's February CPC was 18 cents per click, divide the total cents spent by the CPC: 144 cents / 18 cents/click = 8 clicks. Therefore, the advertiser received 8 clicks.

Question 45: On a street map, a patrol officer notes that the block numbers on Main Street increase as you travel north. She is at 400 Main Street. The suspect was last seen at 700 Main Street. In which direction should she travel?

East
West
South
North (Correct answer)

Correct answer: North

Since block numbers increase going north, traveling from 400 to 700 requires heading north.

Question 46: 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 47: 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:

Right (Correct answer)
Left
Up
Down

Correct answer: Right

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

Question 48: A supply room has 144 pens. If 36 are distributed to one department and 48 to another, how many remain?

66
50
60 (Correct answer)
56

Correct answer: 60

144 − 36 − 48 = 60 pens remaining.

Question 49: A new police officer is appointed to a beginning position in a department governed by Texas Civil Service law. The officer's employment status during the first year is best described as:

A probationary employee who automatically gains full civil service protection after six months.
A probationary employee who can only be dismissed for violating a specific civil service rule. (Correct answer)
A tenured civil service employee with full appeal rights.
An at-will employee who can be dismissed without cause.

Correct answer: A probationary employee who can only be dismissed for violating a specific civil service rule.

Texas Local Government Code §143.027 establishes a one-year probationary period for beginning positions. During this period, the department head is required to discharge the person if their appointment was not regular or not made in accordance with the rules. While not strictly 'at-will' in the private sector sense, they do not have the full appeal rights of a tenured employee and can be dismissed based on their suitability for the role without the same hearing process. They only gain full protection after serving the *entire* probationary period.

Question 50: An officer's retirement benefit is calculated at 2.5% of final salary per year of service. After 20 years at a final salary of $68,000, what is the annual retirement benefit?

$36,000
$34,000 (Correct answer)
$32,000
$30,000

Correct answer: $34,000

2.5% × 20 years = 50% of $68,000; 0.50 × $68,000 = $34,000 annual benefit.

Question 51: When a supervisor first notices declining performance in an employee, what should be the initial course of action?

Transfer the employee to a different unit
Immediately issue a formal written reprimand
Conduct an informal counseling session to discuss the performance issue (Correct answer)
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 52: A rectangular parking lot is 200 feet long and 80 feet wide. What is the perimeter?

16,000 ft
280 ft
560 ft (Correct answer)
320 ft

Correct answer: 560 ft

Perimeter = 2(200 + 80) = 2 × 280 = 560 feet.

Question 53: Under Texas civil service law, an 'eligible list' is valid for what maximum period before it must be recreated?

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

Correct answer: 1 year

Eligible lists from civil service examinations are generally valid for one year, after which a new examination must be conducted if positions remain unfilled.

Question 54: 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?

7.5
8.0
9.0
8.5 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 8.5

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

Question 55: A civil engineer estimates a project will take 640 worker-hours. If 8 workers are assigned, how many days will the project take working 8 hours per day?

9 days
10 days (Correct answer)
12 days
8 days

Correct answer: 10 days

8 workers × 8 hrs/day = 64 worker-hours per day; 640 ÷ 64 = 10 days.

Question 56: An investigator concludes: 'Witnesses A and B both lied, so the entire witness pool is unreliable.' This is an example of:

Hasty generalization (Correct answer)
Hypothetical syllogism
Modus ponens
Valid deduction

Correct answer: Hasty generalization

Drawing a broad conclusion about all witnesses from only two cases is a hasty generalization.

Question 57: A supervisor is writing an employee evaluation. To maintain parallel structure, which of the following is the best-written sentence?

The employee's tasks are completed efficiently, teamwork is demonstrated, and she is always punctual.
The employee completes tasks efficiently, demonstrates strong teamwork, and is always punctual. (Correct answer)
The employee is efficient in completing tasks, a good team player, and is always on time.
The employee completes tasks efficiently, demonstrates strong teamwork, and her punctuality is good.

Correct answer: The employee completes tasks efficiently, demonstrates strong teamwork, and is always punctual.

This sentence maintains parallel structure by using three verb phrases in the same form (verb + object/adverb). The other options mix different grammatical constructions (verb phrases, noun clauses, passive voice), which makes them awkward and less clear.

Question 58: Which version of the sentence is most concise without losing meaning?

Due to the fact that it was raining, the parade was cancelled.
In light of the rain, which was falling, the parade was cancelled.
Because it was raining, the parade was cancelled. (Correct answer)
On account of the rain that was falling, the parade was cancelled.

Correct answer: Because it was raining, the parade was cancelled.

'Because' is more concise than 'due to the fact that' and conveys the same causal relationship.

Question 59: Which of the following is NOT a type of bearing used to reduce friction in rotating machinery?

Tension bearing (Correct answer)
Roller bearing
Ball bearing
Thrust bearing

Correct answer: Tension bearing

Ball, roller, and thrust bearings are all standard bearing types; 'tension bearing' is not a standard classification.

Question 60: A city employee earns $55,200 per year. What is the monthly gross salary?

$4,600 (Correct answer)
$4,200
$4,400
$4,800

Correct answer: $4,600

$55,200 ÷ 12 = $4,600 per month.

Question 61: A police station receives reports in the ratio of violent to property crimes at 2:7. If 126 property crimes were reported last month, how many violent crimes were reported?

28
36 (Correct answer)
42
18

Correct answer: 36

Ratio means 2 violent per 7 property: (2/7) × 126 = 36 violent crimes.

Question 62: Which sentence is written in parallel structure?

The training covered writing reports, how to interview witnesses, and evidence collection.
The training covered to write reports, interviewing witnesses, and evidence collection.
The training covered report writing, to interview witnesses, and collecting evidence.
The training covered writing reports, interviewing witnesses, and collecting evidence. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The training covered writing reports, interviewing witnesses, and collecting evidence.

Parallel structure requires matching grammatical forms; all three elements use the gerund (-ing) form.

Question 63: Which sentence uses commas correctly?

The report was long detailed, and confusing.
The report was, long, detailed and confusing.
The report was long, detailed, and confusing. (Correct answer)
The report, was long detailed and confusing.

Correct answer: The report was long, detailed, and confusing.

Serial commas correctly separate three or more items in a list.

Question 64: An employee works 37.5 hours per week. How many hours does she work in a 52-week year?

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

Correct answer: 1,950 hours

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

Question 65: What's the quotient of 0.808 ÷ 0.29?

2.786 (Correct answer)
27.86
0.279
278.6

Correct answer: 2.786

To find the quotient of 0.808 ÷ 0.29, perform the division. It's often helpful to eliminate the decimal in the divisor by multiplying both numbers by 100, transforming the problem into 80.8 ÷ 29. Performing this division yields approximately 2.7862, which, when rounded to three decimal places, is 2.786.

Question 66: Which option correctly completes the sentence: 'Neither the director nor the managers _____ aware of the budget change.'

were (Correct answer)
has been
is
was

Correct answer: were

With 'neither...nor,' the verb agrees with the subject closest to it; 'managers' is plural, so 'were' is correct.

Question 67: Which sentence correctly uses a colon?

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

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 68: Which of the following is a counter-example that disproves: 'All public servants work Monday through Friday'?

A firefighter who works weekends (Correct answer)
A librarian who takes holidays
A teacher who works weekdays
A mayor who works long hours

Correct answer: A firefighter who works weekends

A firefighter who works weekends is a public servant who does not work exclusively Monday–Friday, disproving the universal claim.

Question 69: 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
Seniority (Correct answer)
Performance ratings
Educational credentials

Correct answer: Seniority

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

Question 70: Which word is spelled INCORRECTLY?

Acknowledgement
Miscellaneous
Correspondence
Occurance (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Occurance

'Occurance' is misspelled; the correct spelling is 'occurrence' with double 'c' and double 'r'.

Question 71: Which of the following best describes a 'bearing' in navigation?

The altitude of a location above sea level
The speed at which a patrol unit travels
A direction measured as degrees clockwise from north (Correct answer)
The distance between two map grid points

Correct answer: A direction measured as degrees clockwise from north

A bearing is a directional measurement expressed in degrees, measured clockwise from true or magnetic north (0°–360°).

Question 72: To lift the 100 lb weight, which of the four pulley systems shown requires the LEAST amount of pulling force from the user?

System C (Correct answer)
System A
System B
System D

Correct answer: System C

The mechanical advantage of a pulley system is determined by the number of rope segments supporting the load. System A has 1 supporting rope (MA=1). System B has 2 supporting ropes (MA=2). System C has 4 supporting ropes (MA=4). System D is a single fixed pulley that only changes the direction of force (MA=1). System C divides the weight by the largest number of ropes (100 lbs / 4 = 25 lbs of force), therefore requiring the least effort.

Question 73: Identify the correct word to fill in the blank: 'The evidence was _____ to the case.'

pertinent (Correct answer)
pertenent
pertanent
pertanant

Correct answer: pertinent

'Pertinent' is the correct spelling, meaning relevant or applicable.

Question 74: Read the passage about public records and answer the question below. 'The Texas Public Information Act (PIA) gives the public the right to request access to government records. An officer for public information must promptly produce public information in response to a written request. 'Promptly' means as soon as possible under the circumstances, without unreasonable delay. While the act favors disclosure, it also provides for several exceptions. For example, information related to an ongoing criminal investigation, certain personal information of government employees, and documents containing confidential attorney-client communications may be withheld. If a governmental body wishes to withhold information, it must seek a ruling from the Attorney General.' According to the passage, under which circumstance may a government agency legally withhold information requested under the PIA?

When the information is part of an active criminal investigation. (Correct answer)
When the public information officer deems the request unreasonable.
When the request is not submitted in writing.
When the information is more than ten years old.

Correct answer: When the information is part of an active criminal investigation.

The passage lists several exceptions to the PIA, explicitly mentioning that 'information related to an ongoing criminal investigation...may be withheld.' The other options are not supported by the text provided.

Question 75: When two objects of different temperatures touch, heat flows:

From the cooler object to the warmer object
In both directions equally
From the warmer object to the cooler object (Correct answer)
Only if the objects are metal

Correct answer: From the warmer object to the cooler object

Heat always flows from higher temperature to lower temperature until thermal equilibrium is reached.

Question 76: While working late, you discover a coworker has been using the department's high-end plotter printer to print large, high-quality posters for their personal side business. This is a clear violation of city policy regarding the use of public resources. Which of the following is the best course of action?

Ignore the situation, as it does not directly impact your work and you do not want to get involved.
Confront the coworker directly and threaten to report them if they don't stop.
Leave an anonymous note on your coworker's desk with a copy of the city's policy on resource use.
Report your observation to your direct supervisor or the designated ethics officer in your department. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Report your observation to your direct supervisor or the designated ethics officer in your department.

Using public resources for private gain is an ethical breach. The proper procedure is to report such violations through the established chain of command, which is typically to your direct supervisor. This allows management to handle the situation formally and consistently. Confrontation can lead to workplace conflict, and ignoring the issue condones unethical behavior.

Question 77: Three water tanks of different shapes are connected at the bottom by a pipe. If water is poured into Tank A until it is full, what will be the resulting water level in all three tanks once the water settles?

The water level will be highest in Tank A.
The water level will be the same in all three tanks. (Correct answer)
The water will remain only in Tank A.
The water level will be highest in Tank C because it is the narrowest.

Correct answer: The water level will be the same in all three tanks.

This demonstrates the principle of communicating vessels. When containers are interconnected, a fluid at rest will balance out to the same level in all containers, regardless of their shape or volume. This is due to hydrostatic pressure evening out at any given depth within the connected system.

Question 78: A department head discovers on June 1st that an officer committed a non-criminal act violating a civil service rule back on November 15th of the previous year. Under the 180-day rule in Chapter 143, what action can the department head take?

Issue an indefinite suspension immediately.
Issue a written reprimand, but not a suspension.
Take no disciplinary action, as the deadline has passed. (Correct answer)
Request the Civil Service Commission to grant an extension to the 180-day rule.

Correct answer: Take no disciplinary action, as the deadline has passed.

Texas Local Government Code §143.052(h) states that a department head may not complain of an act that occurred earlier than the 180th day preceding the date of suspension. Since the act on November 15th occurred more than 180 days before June 1st, the department head is barred from imposing a suspension for that specific act.

Question 79: Which body has final authority to adopt and amend civil service rules for Texas state classified employees under the State Classification Act?

The State Auditor's Office
The Governor of Texas
The Texas Legislature
The State Civil Service Commission (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The State Civil Service Commission

The State Civil Service Commission holds the authority to adopt, amend, and enforce civil service rules governing the state classified workforce.

Question 80: A supply order totals $3,680. If the department receives a 12.5% government discount, what is the final cost?

$3,290
$3,120
$3,220 (Correct answer)
$3,040

Correct answer: $3,220

Discount = $3,680 × 0.125 = $460; final cost = $3,680 - $460 = $3,220.

Question 81: A supervisor reviews an incident report and finds a sentence with a pronoun error. Which sentence needs correction?

Each officer must complete their own daily activity log. (Correct answer)
The evidence was cataloged by her and the lead detective.
To whom should this package be delivered?
The suspect gave his statement to Officer Smith and me.

Correct answer: Each officer must complete their own daily activity log.

The sentence 'Each officer must complete their own daily activity log' contains a pronoun-antecedent agreement error. The antecedent 'Each officer' is singular, so the pronoun referring to it should also be singular ('his or her' or rewriting the sentence). While 'their' is often used colloquially, in formal grammar, it is plural. The other sentences use pronouns correctly ('me' as an object, 'her' as an object, and 'whom' as the object of a preposition).

Question 82: Texas civil service law generally prohibits which of the following activities by a civil service employee during working hours?

Soliciting political contributions from coworkers (Correct answer)
Filing a grievance with their supervisor
Joining a professional association
Attending an off-site training

Correct answer: Soliciting political contributions from coworkers

Soliciting political contributions from coworkers during working hours violates civil service political activity restrictions designed to keep employment free from political pressure.

Question 83: Read the following sentences. Which sentence contains a grammatical error in subject-verb agreement?

Neither the fire chief nor the police chief was available.
The mayor, along with her staff, is attending the event.
The list of approved vendors are posted on the intranet. (Correct answer)
Each of the proposals was reviewed carefully.

Correct answer: The list of approved vendors are posted on the intranet.

The subject of this sentence is 'list,' which is a singular noun. Therefore, the verb should be singular ('is') to agree with it. The phrase 'of approved vendors' is a prepositional phrase that does not affect the subject.

Question 84: 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?

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

Correct answer: 30 days

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

Question 85: A city plans to repave 480 miles of road. Crews complete 16 miles per week. How many months will the project take? (Assume 4 weeks per month.)

8.0 months
6.0 months
10.0 months
7.5 months (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 7.5 months

Weeks needed = 480 ÷ 16 = 30 weeks; months = 30 ÷ 4 = 7.5 months.

Question 86: Under Chapter 143, a promotional examination must test candidates on duties relevant to the position being filled. Which of the following may NOT be included in a promotional exam?

Written problem-solving scenarios
Assessment center exercises
Physical agility unrelated to the position's duties (Correct answer)
Job knowledge specific to the rank

Correct answer: Physical agility unrelated to the position's duties

Physical agility tests are only appropriate where the duties of the promoted rank specifically require them; they cannot be used arbitrarily for all promotional exams.

Question 87: Identify the sentence that avoids a comma splice.

The evidence was strong; therefore, the case proceeded to trial. (Correct answer)
The investigation concluded, the report was filed the next morning.
The witness arrived late, she missed the initial briefing.
The suspect fled, the officer gave chase.

Correct answer: The evidence was strong; therefore, the case proceeded to trial.

Using a semicolon followed by a conjunctive adverb and a comma correctly joins two independent clauses.

Question 88: Select the option that correctly completes the sentence with a pronoun-antecedent agreement. 'Each supervisor must submit ____ timesheet by Friday.'

our
its
their
his or her (Correct answer)

Correct answer: his or her

In formal writing, singular indefinite pronouns like 'each' require singular pronouns such as 'his or her.'

Question 89: A policy states: 'Overtime is approved only when the budget allows AND a supervisor signs off.' The budget allows, but no supervisor signed. What follows?

Overtime is approved
Overtime may or may not be approved
A new policy is needed
Overtime is not approved (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Overtime is not approved

Both conditions must be met; since supervisor sign-off is missing, overtime cannot be approved.

Question 90: 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. The investigation stalled.
The suspect cooperated fully, additionally, the investigation stalled.

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

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

Question 91: How much will the month of July's oil production be worth if it drops by 22% month over month in production?

$1,095,120
$1,151,280 (Correct answer)
$1,081,080
Cannot say

Correct answer: $1,151,280

To calculate July's oil production worth, you need the value of June's oil production from the provided data. Assuming June's production was worth $1,476,000, a 22% drop would be $1,476,000 * 0.22 = $324,720. Subtracting this drop from June's value gives July's worth: $1,476,000 - $324,720 = $1,151,280. This calculation determines the new value after the specified percentage decrease.

Question 92: A dispatcher receives calls in this order of priority: Emergency (E), Urgent (U), Routine (R). Three calls arrive simultaneously: one E, one U, one R. After E is handled, which is processed next?

Whichever arrived first
E again
R
U (Correct answer)

Correct answer: U

Priority queuing places Urgent above Routine, so U is handled before R after the Emergency is resolved.

Question 93: On a city map, which street numbering system is most common in Texas cities like Houston?

Numbers increase toward the city center
Numbers are assigned randomly
Numbers increase outward from a central baseline (Correct answer)
Numbers follow alphabetical street names

Correct answer: Numbers increase outward from a central baseline

Most Texas cities use a grid system where address numbers increase as you move away from a central baseline such as downtown.

Question 94: A report states that crime in a district fell from 840 incidents last year to 714 this year. What is the percentage decrease?

15% (Correct answer)
12%
17%
13%

Correct answer: 15%

Decrease = 126; percentage = (126 ÷ 840) × 100 = 15%.

Question 95: A city ordinance states: 'A permit is required for any public gathering of 50 or more people in a city park. The applicant for the permit must be a resident of the city.' Based on this rule, which of the following situations describes a violation of the ordinance?

A non-resident organizes a gathering of 100 people in a city park after successfully obtaining a permit.
A group of 60 tourists gathers in a city park without a permit, organized by a tour company based in another state. (Correct answer)
A city resident organizes a picnic for their 30 family members in a city park without a permit.
A city resident organizes a public concert in a city park that is attended by 200 people, but they never applied for a permit.

Correct answer: A group of 60 tourists gathers in a city park without a permit, organized by a tour company based in another state.

The correct answer identifies violations of both conditions. The gathering has more than 50 people, which triggers the permit requirement. The organizer is a company from another state, not a city resident, which violates the applicant requirement. While choice C is a violation, choice D is a more comprehensive violation of the stated rules, as both the permit is missing AND the organizer is ineligible to apply.

Question 96: You and some of your close friends have decided to go on a trip together. You have had a conversation in advance with your manager and the rest of your team, and you have arranged for your colleague Arvin to stay and close the store while you leave early yourself. You are currently working to complete all of the necessary paperwork as the time that was agreed upon for you to be able to leave draws near. The product displays, on the other hand, are in a state of disarray as a result of a large group of customers who have just entered the store and are experimenting with various items. Arvin is assisting them with their inquiries, but you are aware that it will take him longer than usual to organize and close the store because of the interruption caused by the customers. <br> What action would you take?

Cancel your plans and stay at the store.
Tell Arvin that you appreciate his help and will return the favor.
Call your friends and let them know that you will be late; stay a little longer and help Arvin. (Correct answer)
Leave at the agreed time, but ask Arvin if there is anything he needs you to do before you go.

Correct answer: Call your friends and let them know that you will be late; stay a little longer and help Arvin.

This scenario presents a conflict between personal plans and professional responsibility. While you have an agreement to leave, an unforeseen influx of customers has left your colleague overwhelmed. The most appropriate action is to demonstrate teamwork and responsibility by staying a little longer to help, while also communicating with your friends about the delay. This balances your commitments effectively.

Question 97: 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

4
2
3 (Correct answer)
5

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 98: A training program costs $15,000 for equipment and $800 per participant. If the department budgets $23,400 total, how many participants can attend?

10 (Correct answer)
8
9
11

Correct answer: 10

Available for participants = $23,400 - $15,000 = $8,400; $8,400 ÷ $800 = 10.5, so 10 full participants.

Question 99: You are part of a team project with a tight deadline. You notice that one of your team members is consistently failing to complete their assigned tasks on time, which is jeopardizing the entire project. What is the most appropriate first step to take?

Inform your project manager or supervisor that the team member is falling behind and putting the project at risk.
Discuss the team member's lack of performance with other colleagues on the project to see if they have noticed it too.
Take on the team member's unfinished work yourself to ensure the project stays on schedule.
Speak with the team member privately to ask if they are facing any challenges and offer to help if you can. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Speak with the team member privately to ask if they are facing any challenges and offer to help if you can.

The most constructive and collaborative first step is to approach the individual directly in a supportive manner. This allows you to understand the situation without immediately escalating it. The team member may have a simple misunderstanding or a problem you can help solve. Escalating to a manager or taking over their work without communicating first can damage team morale and is less effective in the long run.

Question 100: A city allocates $120,000 for road repairs, spending $8,500 each month. After 9 months, how much budget remains?

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

Correct answer: $43,500

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

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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These practice questions were written with AI tools. They are not real exam questions. We have not yet matched this exam's facts to an official source, so confirm fees, dates and rules with the exam body. Not reviewed by a subject-matter expert. Editorial policy