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UPSC IFoS Geology syllabus 2026 covers physical geology, geomorphology, structural geology, and economic geology topics essential for the forest service competitive test. Reviewing the IFoS Geology syllabus and exam pattern 2025-2026 helps candidates understand the question format and marking scheme for strategic preparation.
UPSC IFoS Geology syllabus 2026 is a critical resource for aspirants who are planning to appear for the Indian Forest Service Examination. The syllabus is designed to evaluate the candidate’s scientific depth and analytical ability required for specialised roles in forest services. The Indian Forest Service Geology syllabus covers a broad spectrum of geological sciences, ensuring candidates possess the technical expertise needed for the Main (Written) stage.
The Geology optional IFoS syllabus consists of two core descriptive papers. These papers test the knowledge of the candidate on the structure of the Earth, surface processes, and mineral resources. The IFoS Geology topics list follows a standard university curriculum to assist students from science and engineering backgrounds. Details of the syllabus and pattern for the IFoS Geology exam are as follows:
| IFoS Geology Syllabus 2026 Overview | |
| Particulars | Expected Details |
| Exam Name | Indian Forest Service Examination |
| Common Name | IFoS 2025/2026 |
| Conducted By | Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) |
| Exam Purpose | Selection for Indian Forest Service |
| Exam Mode | Written (Offline/Pen & Paper) |
| Exam Date | Main Exam – As per UPSC Calendar |
| Syllabus Topics | Geomorphology, Structural Geology, Petrology, Economic Geology |
| Syllabus Nature | Academic/Subject-Specific (Optional) |
Note: The syllabus structure is based on the official UPSC Indian Forest Service notification. Candidates can check the official portal for further updates.
Candidates should use the UPSC IFoS Geology syllabus PDF download to streamline their study routine. The PDF provides a detailed IFoS Geology detailed syllabus, including Paper I and Paper II sections such as Stratigraphy, Paleontology, and Hydrogeology. Having a digital or printed copy of the official IFoS Geology syllabus download ensures that aspirants track their progress and cover every sub-topic systematically.
The IFoS Geology syllabus section wise layout allows candidates to focus on specific domains of the Earth sciences. A structured approach to the Geology IFoS preparation syllabus is necessary to score well in the Mains examination.
The IFoS Geology Paper 1 syllabus primarily deals with the physical and structural aspects of the Earth, including remote sensing and hydrogeology.
| IFoS Geology Paper 1 Syllabus | |
| Topic Area | Expected Coverage |
| General Geology | Solar system, age of the Earth, interior of the Earth, plate tectonics |
| Geomorphology & Remote Sensing | Landforms, weathering, aerial photography, satellite data products |
| Structural Geology | Geologic mapping, folds, faults, unconformities, crystal defects |
| Paleontology | Fossil record, evolutionary trends in Trilobites, Brachiopods, and Humans |
| Stratigraphy | Principles of correlation, Geological Time Scale, Precambrian and Phanerozoic rocks of India |
| Hydrogeology & Engineering Geology | Groundwater recharge, rainwater harvesting, geological investigations for dams and tunnels |
Note: The topic list for Paper 1 aligns with the official IFoS Geology detailed syllabus patterns.
The IFoS Geology Paper 2 syllabus evaluates candidates on mineralogy, petrology, and economic geology.
| IFoS Geology Paper 2 Syllabus | |
| Topic Area | Expected Coverage |
| Mineralogy | Crystallography, optical properties of minerals, structural classification of silicates |
| Igneous & Metamorphic Petrology | Magma types, crystallization, textures, types of metamorphism |
| Sedimentology | Processes of formation, diagenesis, clastic and non-clastic rocks |
| Economic Geology | Ore-forming processes, mineral deposits of India, coal and petroleum |
| Mining Geology | Methods of prospecting and sampling, ore reserve estimation, mineral dressing |
| Geochemistry & Environmental Geology | Element abundance, cosmic abundance, pollution, geological hazards |
Note: These topics are derived from the IFoS Geology topics list provided in official UPSC notifications.
The Indian Forest Service Geology syllabus and exam pattern define the rigorous nature of the selection process. While the preliminary stage is a screening test (Civil Services Prelims), the IFoS Geology mains syllabus is part of the descriptive written examination.
| IFoS Main Exam Pattern Details | |
| Feature | Expected Details |
| Mode | Written (Descriptive) |
| Number of Papers | Two Optional Papers (Paper I & Paper II) |
| Language | English (Mandatory) |
| Duration | 3 Hours per paper |
| Total Marks | 200 Marks per paper |
Note: Exam pattern details are based on the official UPSC brochure. Candidates should visit the official portal for the latest IFoS Geology syllabus PDF download updates.
Focusing on the IFoS Geology 2026 important topics can help candidates prioritize their revision effectively.
| IFoS Geology 2026 Important Topics | |
| Section | Key Topic Focus |
| Physical Geology | Plate Tectonics and Continental Drift |
| Structural | Fold and Fault analysis |
| Petrology | Magmatic differentiation and Metamorphic facies |
| Economic | Ore deposits and Mineral Prospecting |
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To master the IFoS Geology syllabus for mains, candidates must emphasize clear diagrams and precise descriptions.
Here are some essential tips for the IFoS Geology optional subject syllabus:
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The IFoS Geology syllabus 2026 includes Paper I (General Geology, Structural, Paleontology) and Paper II (Mineralogy, Petrology, Economic Geology).
The IFoS exam syllabus is defined by UPSC, but candidates should check annual notifications for any updates or modifications.
It is divided into two descriptive papers, each worth 200 marks, covering both theoretical and applied aspects of geology.
Yes, Paper 1 includes basic concepts of remote sensing, satellite systems, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS).
Yes, the syllabus is well-aligned with undergraduate and postgraduate curricula in Geology and Earth Sciences65.
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