NICET - Highway Construction Inspection Practice Exam

A surveyor's tape is best described as a flexible tool for measuring distances because it is specifically designed to provide accurate measurements over a variety of distances, often in the field where flexibility is essential. It typically comes in rolls and is made from materials that can bend and conform to the terrain while still providing reliable distance measurements. This flexibility allows for easier handling and use in different environmental conditions, such as around obstacles and uneven ground.

In contrast to other options, the surveyor's tape is not a tool for calculating elevations, as that function is usually performed using levels or laser devices. It is not primarily a rigid tool, which would be less practical for measuring distance on varying surfaces. Additionally, while surveyor's tapes might indirectly aid in setting up for angle measurements when combined with other tools, they do not serve as angle measurement instruments by themselves. The focus on distance measurement is what makes the description of a surveyor's tape as a flexible measuring tool the most accurate.