Police Entrance Practice Exam

What is the typical size of a beat?

1. 2-3 blocks

2. 5-6 blocks

3. 10-12 blocks

4. 15-20 blocks

The correct answer is: 5-6 blocks

A beat is often defined as a small, local area covered by police officers on foot or in a vehicle. The size of each beat can vary greatly depending on the population, crime rate, and geography of the area. Generally, a beat can range from 2-3 to 15-20 blocks. Options A, C, and D are incorrect because they offer extreme ranges that are not typical for a beat. Option A is too small, as it would only cover a few blocks and likely not be an effective area for patrolling. Similarly, option D is too large, as it would cover a much larger area and potentially be difficult for officers to effectively monitor and respond to incidents. Option C is also larger than the typical beat size, although it may be a more viable option in certain areas with lower population densities. Ultimately, option B is the most accurate and reasonable answer in terms of