Exam Pattern of UPSC Geo-Scientist Exam 2024
The UPSC Geo-Scientist Exam is a national-level competitive examination conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) for recruitment to the post of Geo-Scientist in various Ministries/Departments of the Government of India. The exam is held annually in two stages:
1. Preliminary Examination (Objective Type)
2. Main Examination (Written and Interview)
Preliminary Examination (Objective Type)
The Preliminary Examination consists of two papers, both of which are objective type and carry a total of 400 marks. The duration of each paper is two hours.
Paper 1: General Studies
- Syllabus:
- Current events of national and international importance.
- History of India and Indian National Movement.
- Indian Polity and Governance – Constitution, Political System, Panchayati Raj, Public Policy, Rights Issues, etc.
- Economic and Social Development – Sustainable Development, Poverty, Inclusion, Demographics, Social Sector Initiatives, etc.
- General Issues on Environmental Ecology, Bio-diversity and Climate Change – that do not require subject specialization.
- General Science.
- Marking Scheme:
- Each question carries 2 marks.
- There is a negative marking of 0.5 marks for each incorrect answer.
Paper 2: Geology
- Syllabus:
- General Geology:
- Origin and evolution of the Earth, Earth’s internal structure and composition, Plate tectonics, Geochronology, Geological time scale, Stratigraphy, Paleontology, Structural Geology, Geomorphology, Weathering and Erosion, Soils, Groundwater, Geochemistry, Environmental Geology.
- Mineralogy and Petrology:
- Physical and chemical properties of minerals, Crystallography, Mineral optics, Igneous, Sedimentary and Metamorphic rocks, Petrography, Petrology of major rock types.
- Economic Geology:
- Ore deposits, Coal, Petroleum, Industrial minerals, Mineral resources of India.
- Geophysics:
- Principles of gravity, magnetic, electrical, seismic and radioactive methods, Geophysical exploration techniques, Interpretation of geophysical data.
- Remote Sensing and GIS:
- Principles of remote sensing, Image interpretation, GIS applications in geology and environmental studies.
- General Geology:
- Marking Scheme:
- Each question carries 2 marks.
- There is a negative marking of 0.5 marks for each incorrect answer.
Note: The syllabus for Paper 2 (Geology) is common for all the four branches of Geo-Scientist (Geology, Geophysics, Chemistry and Geophysics, and Hydrogeology).
Main Examination (Written and Interview)
The Main Examination consists of two parts:
1. Written Examination:
The written examination consists of two papers, both of which are conventional type and carry a total of 600 marks. The duration of each paper is three hours.
Paper 1: Geology
- Syllabus:
- General Geology:
- Origin and evolution of the Earth, Earth’s internal structure and composition, Plate tectonics, Geochronology, Geological time scale, Stratigraphy, Paleontology, Structural Geology, Geomorphology, Weathering and Erosion, Soils, Groundwater, Geochemistry, Environmental Geology.
- Mineralogy and Petrology:
- Physical and chemical properties of minerals, Crystallography, Mineral optics, Igneous, Sedimentary and Metamorphic rocks, Petrography, Petrology of major rock types.
- Economic Geology:
- Ore deposits, Coal, Petroleum, Industrial minerals, Mineral resources of India.
- Geophysics:
- Principles of gravity, magnetic, electrical, seismic and radioactive methods, Geophysical exploration techniques, Interpretation of geophysical data.
- Remote Sensing and GIS:
- Principles of remote sensing, Image interpretation, GIS applications in geology and environmental studies.
- General Geology:
- Marking Scheme:
- Each question carries 10 marks.
- There is no negative marking.
Paper 2: Branch Specific Paper
- Syllabus:
- Geology:
- Advanced topics in General Geology, Mineralogy and Petrology, Economic Geology, Geochemistry, Geochronology, Structural Geology, Geomorphology, Remote Sensing and GIS applications in geology.
- Geophysics:
- Advanced topics in Gravity, Magnetic, Electrical, Seismic and Radioactive methods, Geophysical exploration techniques, Interpretation of geophysical data, Seismic wave propagation, Earthquake seismology, Geomagnetism, Geothermal energy, Geophysical data processing and analysis.
- Chemistry and Geophysics:
- Advanced topics in Geochemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Environmental Chemistry, Isotope Geochemistry, Radiochemistry, Geophysics, Remote Sensing and GIS applications in environmental studies.
- Hydrogeology:
- Advanced topics in Groundwater hydrology, Hydrogeology of different geological formations, Groundwater exploration and development, Groundwater pollution and management, Remote Sensing and GIS applications in hydrogeology.
- Geology:
- Marking Scheme:
- Each question carries 10 marks.
- There is no negative marking.
2. Interview:
- Syllabus:
- The interview is conducted by a Board of experts to assess the candidate’s suitability for the post of Geo-Scientist.
- The interview is based on the candidate’s academic background, general knowledge, and personality.
- Marking Scheme:
- The interview carries a total of 200 marks.
Important Points to Note
- The syllabus for the Geo-Scientist Exam is vast and requires a comprehensive understanding of the subject.
- Candidates are advised to start their preparation early and focus on understanding the concepts rather than memorizing facts.
- Previous years’ question papers are a valuable resource for understanding the exam pattern and the level of difficulty.
- Mock tests and practice papers are essential for improving time management and accuracy.
- Candidates should stay updated on the latest developments in the field of geology and related disciplines.
Table 1: Exam Pattern of UPSC Geo-Scientist Exam 2024
| Stage | Paper | Type | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Preliminary Examination | Paper 1: General Studies | Objective | 200 | 2 hours |
| Paper 2: Geology | Objective | 200 | 2 hours | |
| Main Examination | Paper 1: Geology | Conventional | 300 | 3 hours |
| Paper 2: Branch Specific Paper | Conventional | 300 | 3 hours | |
| Interview | – | 200 | – |
Table 2: Branch Specific Paper Syllabus for Main Examination
| Branch | Syllabus |
|---|---|
| Geology | Advanced topics in General Geology, Mineralogy and Petrology, Economic Geology, Geochemistry, Geochronology, Structural Geology, Geomorphology, Remote Sensing and GIS applications in geology. |
| Geophysics | Advanced topics in Gravity, Magnetic, Electrical, Seismic and Radioactive methods, Geophysical exploration techniques, Interpretation of geophysical data, Seismic wave propagation, Earthquake seismology, Geomagnetism, Geothermal energy, Geophysical data processing and analysis. |
| Chemistry and Geophysics | Advanced topics in Geochemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Environmental Chemistry, Isotope Geochemistry, Radiochemistry, Geophysics, Remote Sensing and GIS applications in environmental studies. |
| Hydrogeology | Advanced topics in Groundwater hydrology, Hydrogeology of different geological formations, Groundwater exploration and development, Groundwater pollution and management, Remote Sensing and GIS applications in hydrogeology. |
Tips for Preparation
- Start early: The syllabus is vast, so it is essential to start your preparation early.
- Understand the concepts: Focus on understanding the concepts rather than memorizing facts.
- Practice previous years’ papers: Previous years’ question papers are a valuable resource for understanding the exam pattern and the level of difficulty.
- Take mock tests: Mock tests and practice papers are essential for improving time management and accuracy.
- Stay updated: Stay updated on the latest developments in the field of geology and related disciplines.
- Join a coaching class: Joining a coaching class can provide you with structured guidance and expert advice.
- Stay motivated: The preparation process can be challenging, so it is important to stay motivated and focused.
Career Prospects
A career as a Geo-Scientist offers a wide range of opportunities in various sectors, including:
- Government: Geological Survey of India (GSI), Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC), National Institute of Oceanography (NIO), Central Ground Water Board (CGWB), Ministry of Mines, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, etc.
- Private Sector: Mining companies, Oil and gas exploration companies, Environmental consulting firms, Research and development organizations, etc.
- Academics: Teaching and research positions in universities and research institutions.
Conclusion
The UPSC Geo-Scientist Exam is a challenging but rewarding examination. With proper preparation and dedication, candidates can achieve success and embark on a fulfilling career in the field of geosciences.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) and Short Answers
1. What is the eligibility criteria for the UPSC Geo-Scientist Exam?
- Candidates must hold a Master’s degree in Geology, Geophysics, Chemistry and Geophysics, or Hydrogeology from a recognized university.
2. What is the age limit for the UPSC Geo-Scientist Exam?
- The upper age limit for the exam is 32 years, with relaxation for reserved categories.
3. How many attempts are allowed for the UPSC Geo-Scientist Exam?
- There is no limit on the number of attempts for the exam.
4. What is the syllabus for the UPSC Geo-Scientist Exam?
- The syllabus covers a wide range of topics in geology, geophysics, chemistry, and hydrogeology, including general geology, mineralogy, petrology, economic geology, geophysics, remote sensing, GIS, and environmental geology.
5. What is the exam pattern for the UPSC Geo-Scientist Exam?
- The exam is conducted in two stages: Preliminary Examination (objective type) and Main Examination (written and interview).
6. What is the marking scheme for the UPSC Geo-Scientist Exam?
- The marking scheme varies for different papers and stages of the exam. There is negative marking for incorrect answers in the Preliminary Examination.
7. How can I prepare for the UPSC Geo-Scientist Exam?
- Start your preparation early, understand the concepts, practice previous years’ papers, take mock tests, stay updated on the latest developments, and consider joining a coaching class.
8. What are the career prospects after clearing the UPSC Geo-Scientist Exam?
- A career as a Geo-Scientist offers opportunities in government organizations, private companies, and academia.
9. What are some important books for preparing for the UPSC Geo-Scientist Exam?
- There are several books available for preparing for the exam, including textbooks, reference books, and practice papers.
10. What are some tips for cracking the UPSC Geo-Scientist Exam?
- Stay focused, manage your time effectively, practice regularly, and believe in yourself.