UPSC Geology Syllabus – Geology Optional Syllabus PDF for UPSC Mains 2023
By BYJU'S Exam Prep
Updated on: November 14th, 2023
UPSC Geology Syllabus includes topics that would help the candidates to understand the basic concepts of Geology and the application of knowledge to the development of disaster management and sustainable development. Candidates from Geology backgrounds would find the UPSC Geology Syllabus relevant and the topics would be simpler to cover.
The candidate must have an idea about the syllabus outline so that he or she can make a proper strategy for exam preparation. Being familiar with the UPSC Geology Syllabus would help the candidates to fetch good marks in exams. Besides all this, you will be able to come up with an effective preparation approach to cover the topics in Geology Syllabus for UPSC.
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Geology Optional Syllabus
Geology is a science-based discipline that is objective in nature. The answers are specific and do not rely on the reader’s perception. As a result, Geology is a high-scoring choice. There are two sets of papers in the UPSC Geology Optional Syllabus exam which are Paper 1 and Paper 2 in UPSC Mains. Both paper 1 and paper 2 are 250 marks each and the total marks for the exam are 500.
| Geology Optional Papers | Topics |
| Paper 1 | General Geology, Geomorphology and Remote Sensing, Structural Geology, Paleontology, Indian Stratigraphy, Hydrogeology, and Engineering Geology |
| Paper 2 | Mineralogy, Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology, Sedimentary Petrology, Economic Geology, Mining Geology, and Geochemistry and Environmental Geology |
UPSC Geology Syllabus PDF
Aspirants need to keep a copy of the Geology Syllabus for UPSC on their table to ensure they don’t miss important topics during their preparation. To assist aspirants in their preparation, we have provided UPSC Geology Syllabus PDF below. This PDF contains a detailed outline of the syllabus, including sub-topics that would allow the candidates to proceed with their preparation in an organized manner.
Geology Syllabus for UPSC for Paper 1
The Geology Syllabus for UPSC Paper 1 comprises a diverse range of topics that primarily focus on the Earth’s structure, geological processes, and natural resources. There are 6 topics included in Paper 1 of the Geology Syllabus which are further divided into subtopics as mentioned below.
UPSC Geology Syllabus for Paper 2
The Geology Syllabus for UPSC Paper 2 covers a broad range of topics related to the study of the Earth and its physical properties. It mainly focuses on the geological processes that have shaped the Earth. Candidates can take a look at the Paper 2 Geology syllabus, and plan out a strategy to cover these topics comprehensively.
How to Prepare for UPSC Geology Syllabus?
Paper 1 and paper 2 of the Geology Syllabus for UPSC cover a wide range of topics. Candidates would need a rock-solid strategy to cover the topics easily, and efficiently. Below we have provided a preparation strategy to cover the topics in both papers of the Geology syllabus for UPSC.
Topic-wise Preparation Strategy for Geology Optional Syllabus for Paper 1
General Geology
- There are some important topics that need to be covered are earthquakes, tectonic plates, the age of the earth, and the formation of the universe.
- You can go through the Preparation of engineering geology by KP Banger to cover all these topics of the Geology Optional Syllabus properly. It is a very important and basic concept yet it is simpler to understand.
Geomorphology and Remote Sensing
- Study basic topics such as the formation of rivers, mountains, and many more. Moreover, you need to study important topics such as Indian Satellites and other technologies used for remote sensing, and many others.
- You must keep an eye on the current affairs-related topics under the Geology Syllabus for UPSC.
Paleontology
- This is a very accurate and static part of the UPSC Geology Syllabus. It includes ancient life forms and fossils.
- To prepare well for this topic, make tables for each of these species.
Topic-wise Preparation Strategy for Geology Optional Syllabus for Paper 2
Mineralogy
- In this topic, the properties of different minerals found in the rocks are usually asked.
- In the last few years, applied questions have been asked in this section.
Economic Geology
- In this section of the UPSC Geology Syllabus, the focus is on understanding how geology can impact overall economic development.
- You must read about industries and raw materials.
Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology
- Most of the topics you have covered in your school.
- The most important topics covered in this section are Sedimentary petrology.
Booklist for Geology Syllabus for UPSC
UPSC Books play a vital role in the preparation of the Civil Services Exam. Candidates who have opted for geology as their optional subject must gather the best books for the preparation. As there are so many options out there, it can feel overwhelming when choosing the right ones. That is why we have provided the list of books that would help you cover the UPSC Geology Syllabus in the best possible manner.
- Engineering and General Geology – Parbin Singh
- Geology and Evolution of the Indian Plate – SM Naqvi
- General Geology- GB Mahapatra
- The Elements of Paleontology – Rhona M. Black
- Paleontology – Jain and Ananthamaran
