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UPSC Geology Optional Syllabus 2025 for IAS Exam

UPSC Geology Optional Syllabus 2025 focuses on the scientific study of Earth’s structure, processes, materials, and history, covering topics such as mineralogy, petrology, structural geology, etc. UPSC Geology Optional Syllabus 2025 is divided into two papers.
authorImageAnil Solonki19 Sept, 2025
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UPSC Geology Syllabus

 

UPSC Geology Optional Syllabus 2025: Geology is the science that deals with the earth's physical structure and substance, its history, and the processes that act on it. It studies the structure, evolution, and dynamics of the Earth and its natural mineral and energy resources. For aspirants choosing Geology as an optional subject in the UPSC Civil Services Mains, the syllabus is divided into two papers: Paper I and Paper II, each carrying 250 marks, making a total of 500 marks. Find UPSC Geology Optional Syllabus 2025, booklist, preparation tips, and more!

UPSC Geology Optional Syllabus 2025

It's crucial for IAS aspirants to comprehensively cover all areas of the Geology Optional syllabus to maximise their chances of success. Here is the UPSC Geology Optional Syllabus 2025 for Paper 1 and Paper 2:

UPSC Geology Optional Syllabus For Paper I

The table below contains the Geology Optional Paper I Syllabus for UPSC Mains Exam:
Topics Sub Topics
  • General Geology
  • The Solar System, meteorites, origin and interior of the earth and age of Earth; Volcanoes—causes and products, Volcanic belts. Earthquakes—causes, effects, seismic of zones of India;  Island arcs,  trenches and mid-ocean ridges; Continental drift; Seafloor spreading, plate tectonics. Isostasy.
  • Geomorphology and Remote Sensing
  • Basic concepts of geomorphology. Weathering and soil formations; Landforms, slopes and drainage. Geomorphic cycles and their interpretation. Morphology and its  relation to structures and lithology; Coastal geomorphology;  Applications of  geomorphology in mineral prospecting, civil engineering; hydrology and environmental studies; Geomorphology of Indian sub-continent.
  • Aerial photographs and their interpretation—merits and limitations; The Electromagnetic spectrum. Orbiting  Satellites and  Sensor Systems. Indian Remote Sensing Satellites. Satellite data products; Applications of remote sensing in geology; The Geographic Information System (GIS) and  Global Positioning System (GPS)—its applications.
  • Structural Geology
  • Principles of geologic mapping and map reading, projection diagrams, Stress and strain ellipsoid and stress-strain relationships of elastic,  plastic and viscous materials; Strain markers in deformed rocks.  Behaviour of minerals and rocks under deformation conditions.  Folds and faults classification and mechanics;  Structural analysis of folds, foliations, lineations, joints and faults, unconformities;  Timerelationship between crystallization and deformation.
  • Paleontology
  • Species—definition and nomenclature; Megafossils and Microfossils. Modes of preservation of fossils; Different kinds of microfossils; Application of microfossils in correlation, petroleum exploration, paleoclimatic and paleoceanographic studies; Evolutionary trend  in Hominidae, Equidae and Proboscidae. Siwalik fauna.
  • Gondwana flora and fauna and its importance; Index fossils and their significance.
  • Indian Stratigraphy
  • Classification of stratigraphic sequences: lithostrati-graphic, biostratigraphic, chrono-stratigraphic and magnetostratigraphic and their interrelationships;  Distribution and classification of Precambrian rocks of India; Study of stratigraphic distribution and lithology of Phanerozoic rocks of India with reference to fauna, flora and economic importance. Major boundary problems—Cambrian/ Precambrian, Permian/Triassic, Cretaceous/Tertiary and Pliocene/Pleistocene; Study of climatic conditions, paleogeography and igneous activity in the Indian sub-continent in the geological past. Tectonic framework of India. Evolution of the Himalayas.
  • Hydrogeology and Engineering Geology
  • Hydrologic cycle and genetic classification of water; Movement of subsurface water; Springs; Porosity, permeability, hydraulic conductivity, transmissivity and storage coefficient, classification of aquifers; Water-bearing characteristics of rocks; Groundwater chemistry. Salt water intrusion. Types of wells. Drainage basin morphometry; Exploration for groundwater;  Groundwater recharge;  Problems and management of groundwater; Rainwater harvesting; Engineering properties of rocks; Geological investigations for dams, tunnels highways, railway and bridges; Rock as construction  material; Landslides causes, prevention and rehabilitation;  Earthquake-resistant structures.

UPSC Geology Optional Syllabus for Paper II

The table below contains the Geology Optional Paper I Syllabus for UPSC Mains Exam:
Topics Sub Topics
  • Mineralogy
  • Classification of crystals into systems and classes of symmetry; International system of crystallographic notation; Use of projection diagrams to represent crystal symmetry; Elements of X-ray crystallography.
  • Physical and chemical characteristics of rock-forming silicate mineral groups; Structural classification of silicates; Common minerals of igneous and metamorphic rocks; Minerals of the carbonate, phosphate, sulphide and halide groups; Clay minerals.
  • Optical properties of common rock forming minerals; Pleochroism, extinction angle, double refraction, birefringence, twinning and dispersion in minerals.
  • Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology
  • Generation and crystallisation of magmas. Crystallisation of albite—anorthite, diopside—anorthite and diopside—wollastonite—silica systems. Bowen's Reaction Principle; Magmatic differentiation and assimilation. Petrogenetic significance of the textures and structures of igneous rocks. Petrography and petrogenesis of granite, syenite, diorite, basic and ultrabasic groups, charnockite, anorthosite and alkaline rocks. Carbonatites. Deccan volcanic province.
  • Types and agents of metamorphism. Metamorphic grades and zones; Phase rule. Facies of regional and contact metamorphism; ACF and AKF diagrams; Textures and structures of metamorphic rocks. Metamorphism of arenaceous, argillaceous and basic rocks; Minerals assemblages. Retrograde metamorphism; Metasomatism and granitisation, migmatites. Granulite terrains of India.
  • Sedimentary Petrology
  • Sediments and Sedimentary rocks: Processes of formation; diagenesis and lithification; Clastic and non-clastic rocks-their classification, petrography and depositional environment; Sedimentary facies and provenance. Sedimentary structures and their significance. Heavy minerals and their significance. Sedimentary basins of India.
  • Economic Geology
  • Ore, ore mineral and gangue, tenor of ore. Classification of ore  deposits; Processes of formation of mineral deposits; Controls of ore localisation; Ore textures and structures; Metallogenic epochs and provinces; Geology of the important Indian deposits of aluminium, chromium, copper, gold, iron, lead, zinc, manganese, titanium, uranium and thorium and  industrial minerals; Deposits of coal and petroleum in India, National Mineral Policy; Conservation and utilization of mineral resources. Marine mineral resources and Law of Sea.
  • Mining Geology
  • Methods of prospecting—geological, geophysical, geochemical and geobotanical; Techniques of sampling. Estimation of reserves of ore; Methods of exploration and mining-metallic ores, industrial minerals, marine mineral resources and building stones.  Mineral beneficiation and ore dressing.
  • Geochemistry and Environmental Geology
  • Cosmic abundance of elements. Composition of the planets and meteorites. Structure and composition of earth and distribution of elements. Trace elements. Elements of crystal chemistry-types of chemical bonds, coordination number. Isomorphism and polymorphism. Elementary thermodynamics.
  • Natural hazards—floods, mass wasting, coastal hazards, earthquakes and volcanic activity and mitigation; Environmental impact of urbanization, mining, industrial and radioactive waste disposal, use of fertilisers, dumping of mine waste and fly-ash. Pollution of ground and surface water, marine pollution. Environment protection—legislative measures in India; Sea level changes: causes and impact.

UPSC Geology Optional Exam Pattern 

The exam pattern of the Geology Optional is as follows:
  • The UPSC main exam is divided into two papers, i.e., Paper-1 and Paper-2.
  • Both Paper I and Paper II carry 250 marks each, making the total of 500 marks for the Geology optional papers.
  • In both Paper I and Paper II of the Geology Optional, candidates have to attempt FIVE questions in all. THREE hours are allotted to attempt each paper.
Particular Details
Total Papers Two, Paper I and Paper II
Total Marks 500 (250 Each)
Time allowed 3 Hours for each paper
Sections Section A and Section B
Questions Total 8 questions with subparts
Compulsory Question Question No. 1 and 5
Marks Distribution 10, 15, and 20 marker questions

UPSC Mains Geology Optional Books 

Preparing for the Geology Optional for the UPSC exam involves reviewing past years' papers and consulting appropriate Geology books. Here is a book List which can be referred to while preparing for the Geology optional for UPSC Mains: The table below contains the list of books for Geology Optional Paper I:
Book Author(s)
Advancing Frontiers in Geology and Geophysics: A Volume in Honour of M.S. Krishnan A P Subramaniam & S. Balakrishnan
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
Geology and Evolution of the Indian Plate (from Hadean to Holocene – 4Ga to 4 Ka) Naqvi, S.M.
The table below contains the list of books for Geology Optional Paper II:
Book Author(s)
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.
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.)

UPSC Geology Optional PYQS

The table contains the list of UPSC Chemistry Optional Papers I and II of Previous years:
Geology Optional Paper 2024
Geology Optional Paper I Geology Optional Paper II
  Geology Optional Paper 2023
Geology Optional Paper I Geology Optional Paper II
Geology Optional Paper 2022
Geology Optional Paper I Geology Optional Paper II
Geology Optional Paper 2021
Geology Optional Paper I Geology Optional Paper II
Geology Optional Paper 2020
Geology Optional Paper I Geology Optional Paper II

How to Prepare for the UPSC Geology Optional?

Preparing for the UPSC Geology Optional requires a systematic approach and dedication due to the vast syllabus and the technical nature of the subject. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you prepare effectively:
  • Understand the Syllabus: The first step is to thoroughly understand the UPSC Geology Optional syllabus. It will give you a clear idea of the topics you need to cover and the depth of knowledge required.
  • Collect Study Material: Gather all the necessary study material, including textbooks, reference books, previous years' question papers, and online resources.
  • Make a Study Plan: Develop a study plan that covers all the topics mentioned in the syllabus. Allocate time for each topic based on its importance and your understanding of it. Make sure to include regular revisions in your plan.
  • Focus on Basics: Geology is a subject that builds upon fundamental concepts. Ensure that you have a strong grasp of basic geological principles, terms, and concepts before moving on to advanced topics.
  • Practice Diagrams and Maps: Geology involves a lot of diagrams and maps. Practice drawing geological structures, cross-sections, and maps regularly. Understanding how to interpret geological maps is crucial for scoring well in the exam.
  • Solve Previous Years' Question Papers: Solving previous years' question papers will give you an insight into the exam pattern, types of questions asked, and the level of difficulty. It will also help you in managing your time during the actual exam.
  • Stay Updated: Keep yourself updated with the latest developments and discoveries in the field of Geology. Subscribe to scientific journals, follow relevant websites, and participate in geology forums or discussion groups.
  • Revision and Mock Tests: Regular revision is essential to retain what you have studied. Also, take mock tests regularly to assess your preparation level and identify areas that need improvement.

Geology Optional Success Rates from Previous UPSC Mains Exams

The table below contains the list of Previous Year Success rate for Geology Optional Candidates in UPSC Mains:
Year Total Candidates Candidates Cleared (Success Rate)
2020 35 2 (5.7%)
2019 30 0 (0%)
2018 41 1 (2.4%)
2017 37 2 (5.4%)
2016 51 1 (2%)

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UPSC Geology Optional Syllabus FAQs

Is geology a good optional?

Geology Optional stands as a less popular Optional choice in the UPSC's IAS mains examination. Despite its lack of popularity, it is recognized as a subject with great potential for high scores.

What are the optional marks for geology in UPSC?

Both Paper I and Paper II of Geology Optional Exam carry 250 marks each, making the total of 500 marks for the Geology optional papers I and II.

Who should choose Geology as an optional in UPSC?

Candidates with a background in Geology, Earth Sciences, Physics, or Chemistry should choose Geology as an optional in UPSC.

How many papers are there in the Geology optional subject?

There are two papers: Paper I and Paper II, each of 250 marks.

Can I prepare Geology optional through self-study?

Yes, with the right books, previous year papers, and dedication one can prepare Geology optional through self-study.
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