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Geology Optional Books for UPSC IAS Preparation

Geology Optional Books for UPSC are an essential part of the preparation. Read on for expert’s recommended Geology Optional Books for UPSC Mains.
authorImageDeeksha Dixit7 Jun, 2024
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Geology Optional Books for UPSC IAS Preparation

Geology Optional Books for UPSC : In UPSC IAS Mains, geology is one of the less popular subjects due to its scientific and technical nature. After choosing geology as an optional subject for the UPSC exam, candidates require strategic preparation with the right resources. They must refer to high-quality Geology Optional Books for UPSC-specific knowledge.

Geology Optional books for the UPSC syllabus must have in-depth coverage of key geological topics, including mineralogy, geomorphology, environmental geology, and remote sensing. Here is the list of the top Geology Optional Books for UPSC, which have been suggested by many toppers and experts.

Best Geology Optional Books for UPSC

The syllabus of Geology Optional spans from the structure, evolution, and dynamics of the Earth to mineral and energy resources. To ensure holistic preparation, it is crucial to refer to Geology Optional Books that provide detailed explanations and up-to-date information on these topics. Candidates need to have solid foundational knowledge before integrating current research findings and advancements in the field. For this, completing the syllabus from the best Geology Optional Books for UPSC is essential. Here is a list of some of the must-read UPSC Geology Optional Books PDF:
Best Geology Optional Books for UPSC
Book Author Key Features
Advancing Frontiers in Geology and Geophysics: A Volume in Honour of M.S. Krishnan A P Subramaniam & S. Balakrishnan Comprehensive coverage of Geology and Geophysics, including recent advancements
The Ice Age in the Indian Subcontinent and Associated Human Culture Terra, H. De. & Paterson, T.T. Detailed study of the Ice Age in the Indian Subcontinent and its impact on human culture
Encyclopaedia of Paleontology Sharma, Vivek Detailed coverage of Paleontology, including fossil records and evolutionary history
Geologic Settings and Petroleum Systems of India’s East Coast Offshore Basins: Concepts and Applications Ravi, Bastia In-depth study of the geologic settings and petroleum systems of India’s East Coast Offshore Basins, including concepts and applications
Geology and Evolution of the Indian Plate (from Hadean to Holocene – 4Ga to 4 Ka) Naqvi, S.M. Covers geology and evolution of the Indian Plate, spanning from the Hadean to the Holocene era

Geology Optional Paper 1 Booklist

UPSC Geology Optional Paper 1 focuses on topics ranging from general geology, geomorphology, remote sensing, palaeontology, Indian stratigraphy, and hydrogeology, to engineering geology. Look for books that offer comprehensive explanations of geological processes, rich with diagrams and illustrations to aid visualization. The Geology Optional booklist for paper 1 is as follows:
UPSC Geology Optional Booklist for Paper 1
Book Author
Textbook of Geology P.K. Mukherjee
Advancing Frontiers in Geology and Geophysics: A Volume in Honour of M.S. Krishnan A P Subramaniam & S. Balakrishnan
Brief Glossary of Geology Mathur, S.M.
The Ice Age in the Indian Subcontinent and Associated Human Culture Terra, H. De. & Paterson, T.T.
Encyclopaedia of Paleontology Sharma, Vivek
Foreland Sedimentation in Himalayan Tectonic Regime: A Relook at the Orogenic Process V. Raiverman
Geologic Settings and Petroleum Systems of India's East Coast Offshore Basins: Concepts and Applications Ravi, Bastia
Geological Maps D.K. Awasthi
Encyclopedia of Geo-Informatics: Incorporating GIS and Remote Sensing, 5 Vols Trivedi, Priya Ranjan et al.
Geology and Evolution of the Indian Plate (from Hadean to Holocene – 4Ga to 4 Ka) Naqvi, S.M.

Geology Optional Paper 2 Booklist

The Geology Optional Paper 2 syllabus discusses mineralogy, petrology, sedimentary petroleum, geodynamics, economic geology, geochemistry, and environmental geology in detail. Ensure that your Geology Optional books for UPSC cover these topics in depth and inculcate the latest research findings. Here are recommended books for Geology Optional Paper 2:
UPSC Geology Optional Booklist for Paper 2
Book Author
Inland Fisheries: Ecology and Management Welcomme, R. L.
Marine Geology: A Scenario Around Indian Coasts T.K. Mallik
Metallogenesis of Manganese Ores of Srikakulam-Visakhapatnam Belt Siddiquie, F.N.
Mine Closure Naresh Chandra Saxena
Mineral Exploration: Recent Strategies S. Rajendran et al.
Hydrocarbon Potential and Exploration Strategy of Cauvery Basin, India J.N. Sahu
Poisonous Snakes F. Wall
Remote Sensing and GIS for Natural Resource Management Bir Abhimanyu Kumar
Remote Sensing in Geomorphology Ramasamy, S.M.
Himalaya: Geological Aspect, Vol. 5 P.S. Saklani (Ed.)
Soil Chemistry: Basic Concepts G. Bujy
The Evolution and Classification of Soils Ramanan, E. & Whittles, C.L. (Tr.)

Strategy to Cover Geology Optional Books for UPSC

Preparing for the Geology optional from so many standard books requires a well-planned strategy. Here's a structured approach to effectively cover the recommended Geology Optional Books for UPSC Mains :
  • Begin by thoroughly understanding the Geology syllabus provided in the UPSC notification. This will help you identify the key areas and topics to focus on.
  • Dedicate 3 to 4 hours each day to Geology optional preparation and focus on completing the maximum part of the syllabus at least 6 months before the exam.
  • Set weekly targets for completing specific topics from standard books. Make comprehensive topic-wise notes in the second reading for revision.
  • Read introductory books on Geology to build a strong foundation and later study advanced books for in-depth knowledge.
  • Highlight key points, diagrams, terms, and definitions that will be useful in answer writing.
  • Solve previous years' UPSC Geology optional papers to understand the exam pattern and frequently asked questions.
  • Practice drawing neat and labeled diagrams as they can fetch high marks in the Geology optional papers.
  • Stay updated on the latest developments and discoveries in Geology by reading scientific journals and news articles.
Get ready for the upcoming UPSC exam with the best guidance of PW experts . Enroll now!
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Geology Optional Books for UPSC FAQs

Which booklist is for UPSC geology optional?

Refer to foundational and specialized books from recognized authors like A P Subramaniam & S. Balakrishnan, V. Raiverman, D.K. Awasthi, and T.K. Mallik.

How to prepare for the UPSC geology optional?

Dedicate consistent study hours daily, focusing on key topics. Use recommended books, make comprehensive notes, practice previous years' papers, and stay updated with recent advancements in the field.

Which is the best book for UPSC Geology Optional?

There isn't a single best book, hence candidates must cover the syllabus from a combination of standard texts recommended by toppers.

What is the geology book for studying Mineralogy?

Look for a specialized geology book such as “Mineral Exploration: Recent Strategies” for studying Mineralogy.

Is Geography easy for UPSC Mains?

Geography difficulty varies based on individual background and preparation. However, it is manageable with a structured approach to studying.
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