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How to Prepare for IIT JAM Geology 2025: Best Books & Question Papers
Edited By Komal Miglani | Updated on Aug 04, 2025 01:39 PM IST | #JAM
Ongoing Event
JAM Application Date : 12 Aug' 2025 - 12 Oct' 2025
How To Prepare For IIT Jam 2026 Geology: The IIT JAM exam is a crucial gateway for students who want to get admission into top master’s courses in Geology at India’s best colleges like IITs and IISc. To ace this competitive exam, students need a good study plan. This means developing an understanding of the whole syllabus, picking the right study material and practising diligently with as many mock tests for IIT JAM 2026.
This Story also Contains
- IIT JAM Geology 2026 Exam Pattern
- IIT JAM Geology 2026 Syllabus
- Topics you need to study for the IIT JAM Geology
- IIT JAM Geology 2026 Important Books
- Best Books for IIT JAM 2026 Geology Preparation
- Important Topics for IIT JAM 2026 Geology
- How to Prepare for IIT JAM Geology 2026
- IIT JAM Geology Question Papers
- IIT JAM 2024 Geology Analysis
- Last Minute Preparation Tips for IIT JAM 2026
This article provides a comprehensive guide, including everything you need to get ready for the IIT JAM Geology 2026 exam. Aspirants can find easy IIT JAM preparation tips, a clear look at IIT JAM exam patterns and syllabus, study books recommended by experts, IIT JAM most important topics, practice papers, and helpful last-minute study tips in this article.
IIT JAM Geology 2026 Exam Pattern
The IIT JAM entrance examination will be conducted online in two sessions. The IIT JAM exam pattern 2026 details that the question paper of JAM 2026 will contain 60 questions, and the total marks of the question paper will be 100. The JAM 2026 question paper will consist of multiple-choice and numerical answer-type questions. The detailed IIT JAM 2026 exam pattern is given below.
Particulars | Section A | Section B | Section C |
Number of Questions | 30 | 10 | 20 |
Duration | Three hours | ||
Marks | 10 questions - 1 mark 20 questions - 2 marks | 2 marks for each question | 10 questions - 1 mark 10 questions - 2 marks |
Types of Question | Multiple Choice | Multiple Choice | No options will be displayed |
Mode of Exam | Online | Online | Online |
Total number of questions | 60 | ||
Total Marks | 100 | ||
Negative Marking | 1/3 rd marks will be deducted for each question carrying 1 mark 2/3 rd marks will be deducted for each question carrying 2 marks | No negative marking | No negative marking |
IIT JAM Geology 2026 Syllabus
The IIT JAM 2026 syllabus covers many topics, units, and chapters. Below, you will find all the Geology topics included in the syllabus for the IIT JAM 2026 exam. For good IIT JAM preparation, students should look at the syllabus topic by topic. This will help aspirants know which topics to focus on more for the exam. If you are not familiar with the topics well, it will be hard to figure out where to start your study and what to focus on. To help you get ready for the IIT JAM 2026 exam, we provide a clear list of topics and subtopics you need to cover from the IIT JAM 2026 syllabus. Once you are well acquainted with the syllabus, you can make your own study plan for efficient preparation.
Topics you need to study for the IIT JAM Geology
Here are some important topics and subtopics to focus on in IIT JAM Geology:
Topics | Subtopics |
Paleontology | Significant steps in the evolution of life forms; Fossils; their mode of preservation & utility; Morphological characters, major evolutionary trends & ages of important groups of animals – Anthozoa, Echinodermata, Gondwana plant fossils, Brachiopoda, Mollusca, Trilobita, Graptoloidea; Elementary idea of vertebrate fossils in India. |
Geomorphology | Weathering & Erosion; Transportation & deposition due to wind, ice, river, sea, and resulting landforms, Structurally controlled landforms; Origin of the Solar System & the Earth; Geosphere & the composition of the Earth; Shape & size of the Earth; Earth-moon system; Formation of continents & oceans; Dating rocks & age of the Earth; Volcanism & volcanic landforms; Interior of Earth; Earthquakes; Earth’s Magnetism & Gravity, Isostasy. |
Structural Geology | Stereographic & equal area projections of planes and lines; computation of actual thickness of beds from outcrops & bore-holes; Concept of stratum; Contour; Outcrop patterns; Maps & cross sections; Dip & strike; Classification & origin of folds, faults, joints, unconformities, foliations & lineations; shear zones. |
Mineralogy | Mineralogy of common rock-forming minerals; Mode of occurrence of minerals in rocks. Transmitted polarised light microscopy & optical properties of uniaxial & biaxial minerals; Symmetry & forms in standard crystal classes; Physical properties of minerals; Isomorphism & polymorphism, Classification of minerals; Structure of silicates. |
The Planet Earth | Elements of Plate tectonics: Orogenic cycles |
Stratigraphy | Principles of stratigraphy; Litho-, chrono & biostratigraphic classification; distribution and classification of the stratigraphic horizons of India from Archaean to Recent. |
Economic Geology | Mode of occurrence & distribution in India, both of metallic & non-metallic mineral deposits; Coal & petroleum occurrences in India. |
Applied Geology | Ground Water: Principles of Engineering Geology |
Petrology | Metamorphic rocks – classification, facies, zones and texture; Characteristic mineral assemblages of pelites in the Barrovian zones & mafic rocks in typical facies; Definition & classification of rocks; Igneous rocks-forms of igneous bodies; Crystallisation from magma; classification, Association & genesis of igneous rocks; Sedimentary rocks – classification, texture and structure; size & shape of sedimentary bodies. |
IIT JAM Geology 2026 Important Books
Given below are the best books for preparation of IIT JAM Geology, which are recommended by experts and toppers
Topics | Books and Authors |
Stratigraphy | Fundamentals of Historical Geology & Stratigraphy of India by Ravindra Kumar Stratigraphic principles & practice by Weller, J.M |
Economic Geology | Industrial minerals and rocks of India by Deb, Economic Mineral Deposits by Bateman, A.M. and Jensen, M.L Ore deposits of India are distributed & processed by Gokhale, K.V.G.K., & Rao |
Petrology | An Introduction to Metamorphic Petrology & Igneous by John D. Winter Igneous Petrology by Bose M.K |
Applied Geology | Hydrogeology - Todd and Karanth Groundwater by H.M.Ragunath |
Geology | Physical Geology – Mukherjee Geodynamic Evolution of India - KS Valdiya |
Palaeontology | Palaeoecology: Ecosystems, Environments and Evolution by Brenchley, P. J., and Harper, D. A. T Introduction to Palaeontology by Arnold |
Mineralogy | Mineralogy - Dexter Perkins/ Cornelis Klein Optical Mineralogy by Paul F. Kerr Optical mineralogy by P. K. Verma |
Structural Geology | Structural Geology - Prof. Haakon Fossen Structural Geology - S.K. Ghosh/ Billings/ Davis |
Geomorphology | Geomorphology- M. J. Selby Introduction to Geomorphology by Kale, VS & Gupta Remote Sensing Geology by Gupta R.P |
Other books | Engineering Geology - Krynine & Judd Engineering Geology - K.M.Bhangar |
Best Books for IIT JAM 2026 Geology Preparation
Selecting the right books for IIT JAM Geology preparation is crucial. Candidates must choose the right IIT JAM Geology books that cover Mineralogy, Petrology, Structural Geology, and Palaeontology, aligning with the Geology IIT JAM syllabus. Look for clear explanations, illustrative diagrams, and ample practice questions. Prioritise publications tailored to IIT JAM Geology requirements. Combine these with supplementary study materials for a well-rounded preparation for the IIT JAM Geology exam. The right book choices can make a significant difference in your understanding and success in the JAM exam.
Subject | Book | Author |
Geology | Ground Water | H.M. Ragunath |
Hydrogeology | Todd and Karanth | |
Structure Geology | Prof. Haakon Fasten | |
A Remote Sensing Geology | R.P. Gupta | |
Optical Mineralogy | P.K. Verma | |
Igneous Petrology | M.K. Bose |
Important Topics for IIT JAM 2026 Geology
To do well on the IIT JAM 2026 Geology exam, it’s crucial to know the important topics. The exam assesses several key areas. You’ll need to understand minerals (mineralogy), different types of rocks (petrology), how Earth’s land changes (structural geology), and the study of old life forms (palaeontology). Don’t forget how landscapes are shaped (geomorphology), how dirt and sand settle (sedimentology), and how geology is connected to natural resources (economic geology). Skills like reading geological maps, understanding Earth’s long history, and studying fossils are also very important. You must also know about the Earth's internal structure and plate tectonics. Finally, learn about geophysical methods and environmental geology. A good grasp of these subjects will help you ace the exam!
How to Prepare for IIT JAM Geology 2026
Let's look at some of the best IIT JAM Geology preparation tips so you can ace the entrance exam.
Follow Exam Pattern and Syllabus: Understanding the exam pattern and syllabus must be the first step in your strategic planning for IIT JAM 2026. You can begin your practice in a good way once you understand the exam pattern and syllabus for the IIT JAM exam.
Take Mock Tests and Solve Sample Papers: Candidates should regularly take online mock tests and solve previous years' sample papers after completing their basic preparation. IIT JAM 2026 mock tests will help you improve your weak areas and understand the exam pattern. Using sample papers is great for practising time management for the exam. They also help you clearly see what you’re good at and what areas you need to work on. Similarly, mock tests are excellent for determining your weak and strong areas.
Revise and Make Notes: Regular revisions are necessary. Ensure that you allocate adequate time to each section for revision. It is easy to miss some topics, so make sure to give them extra attention when you revise. As you prepare, gather all key information in one place. And when it is time to revise, creating your short notes is advisable.
Practice Makes a Candidate Perfect: Practising every question on the JAM entrance exam is the most essential thing candidates can do to prepare for it. IIT JAM Question papers are available on the website, which will help candidates understand the actual exam paper and its exam pattern.
Time Management: After taking mock tests, you will be able to manage your time according to the duration of your exam. As a student, you must manage and save your time to complete your exam within a given amount of time. Taking more and more mock tests and online quizzes will help you improve your time management skills in the test.
IIT JAM Geology Question Papers
We are providing below the links to download the official IIT JAM Geology previous year question papers for you to practice from and assess where you stand in your preparation journey. Following this, you may create your study plan based on your needs and prepare effectively for your IIT JAM 2026 attempt.
Question Paper | Download Link |
IIT JAM Geology 2025 | |
IIT JAM Geology 2024 | |
IIT JAM Geology 2023 | |
IIT JAM Geology 2022 |
IIT JAM 2024 Geology Analysis
The IIT JAM 2024 Geology exam assessed candidates' understanding of key geological concepts across multiple topics, including mineralogy, petrology, structural geology, stratigraphy, and geomorphology. The paper was divided into three sections, with varying difficulty levels. Given below are some memory-based questions from the exam for students to get an idea of what type of questions to expect.
Question: The plate tectonic setting of the Benioff-Wadati zone is:
JAM Previous Year Papers
Candidates can download JAM previous year's papers to boost their exam preparation.
Download Now(A) Continental rift
(B) Subduction zone
(C) Passive margin
(D) Mid-oceanic ridge
Correct Option: (B) Subduction zone
Explanation: The Benioff-Wadati zone represents areas of deep-focus earthquakes occurring at convergent boundaries where one tectonic plate subducts beneath another.
Question: Glossopteris is found in which of the following formations?
(A) Raniganj
(B) Bagra
(C) Lameta
(D) Nimar Sandstone
Correct Option: (A) Raniganj
Explanation: Glossopteris, a fossil plant, is primarily associated with coal-bearing formations of the Gondwana sequence, particularly the Raniganj Formation.
Question: The mineral assemblage found in a granulite facies metabasalt is:
(A) Glaucophane + Lawsonite + Chlorite
(B) Orthopyroxene + Garnet + Plagioclase + Clinopyroxene + Quartz
(C) Actinolite + Albite + Chlorite + Epidote
(D) Omphacite + Garnet + Quartz
Correct Option: (B) Orthopyroxene + Garnet + Plagioclase + Clinopyroxene + Quartz
Explanation: This assemblage characterises high-grade metamorphic conditions associated with the granulite facies.
Question: The correct decreasing order of abundance of elements in our solar system is:
(A) O > H > Fe > He
(B) O > Fe > H > He
(C) H > O > Fe > He
(D) H > He > O > Fe
Correct Option: (D) H > He > O > Fe
Explanation: Hydrogen and helium are the most abundant elements in the universe, followed by oxygen and iron.
IIT JAM Geology Topic-Wise Weightage
Given below is the number of questions asked from each topic in the IIT JAM 2024 Geology exam. Students can observe and identify the topics which carried the most weightage in previous years and according prepare for their future attempts.
Topic | Number of Questions |
Mineralogy and Petrology | 10 |
Structural Geology | 8 |
Stratigraphy | 7 |
Geophysics | 5 |
Geomorphology | 6 |
Paleontology | 4 |
Hydrogeology | 5 |
General Geology | 5 |
IIT JAM Geology High-Weightage Topics 2024
Mineralogy and Petrology: Included questions on mineral assemblages, igneous rock classification, and optical properties of minerals.
Structural Geology: Focused on deformation structures, fault mechanics, and fold geometry.
Stratigraphy: Covered fossil assemblages, Gondwana formations, and stratigraphic sequences.
Geomorphology: Assessed knowledge of landforms, geomorphic processes, and sedimentary structures.
IIT JAM Geology Overall Difficulty Level 2024
Difficulty Level: Moderate to Difficult
Section A: Conceptual with straightforward questions (Easy-Moderate).
Section B: Analytical and application-based, requiring thorough subject knowledge (Moderate-Difficult).
Section C: Numerical problems demanding precision and calculation skills (Difficult).
Last Minute Preparation Tips for IIT JAM 2026
Without good last-minute plans, students often waste valuable time on less important topics. They might also feel unprepared for the exam’s format and pressure, leading to lower scores even if they know the questions well enough. Given below are some tips for you to avoid these pitfalls.
Focus on High-Yield Topics and Quick Revision during the last days of IIT JAM 2026 preparation. Avoid starting new complex topics and instead strengthen your grasp on familiar concepts that you can confidently answer during the exam.
Take one full-length mock test every alternate day during the last two weeks, but spend equal time analysing your performance after each test. Focus on identifying recurring mistakes and time management issues occurring during IIT JAM 2026 preparation.
Develop a clear exam day strategy, including the order in which you'll attempt different sections and time allocation for each part. Ensure you're familiar with the online exam interface by taking computer-based practice tests, and prepare a list of items to carry on exam day, including an admit card, photo ID, and any permitted materials.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is there a negative marking in the IIT JAM geology exam 2026?
Yes, There is a negative marking in the IIT jam exam -⅓ for one mark questions and -⅔ for 2 mark questions
2. How many hours should I study daily for the IIT JAM Geology?
Study 6-7 hours daily if you have 8-10 months to complete the course. Increase to 8-9 hours if you have less time available.
3. How can I ace Geology in IIT JAM?
You can go through these 5 steps on how to prepare for JAM Geology 2026:
Know the IIT JAM Geology syllabus
Know the IIT JAM Geology exam pattern
Practice from the IIT JAM Geology mock tests
Practice from the IIT JAM Geology sample papers
Practice from the IIT JAM Geology books recommended
4. How Many Sections Are There In IIT JAM Geology 2026?
There are three sections in the IIT Jam examination: A, B, and C.
5. What is the benefit of clearing IIT JAM?
It allows you to study for M.Sc. and other post-graduate courses at IITs, IISc, NITs, and CFTIs, and it helps you gain academic and practical expertise in a particular field.
6. Is IIT JAM Geology difficult?
The JAM Geology exam is of moderate difficulty. With consistent practice and a strategic approach, it is possible to score well on the Geology exam in the IIT JAM entrance.
7. What are the most important topics for IIT JAM Geology?
The most important topics for IIT JAM Geology include mineralogy, petrology, structural geology, palaeontology, geomorphology, sedimentology, economic geology, geological mapping, geological time scales, fossils, earth's internal structure, plate tectonics, geophysical methods, and environmental geology.
8. How should I prepare for IIT-JAM Geology?
IIT JAM Geology preparation includes mastering core topics, using quality study materials, practising with past papers, maintaining a structured schedule, and seeking guidance if necessary.
9. How Many Months Does It Take To Prepare For IIT JAM Geology 2026?
With the proper preparation and timetable, it takes 1 year to 6 months to prepare for IIT JAM 2026.
10. Are NCERT books helpful for IIT JAM Geology preparation?
Yes, the NCERT Geography (11th-12th) and Chemistry (11th-12th) books help with basic concepts, but you also need advanced books.
11. How important are previous year papers for IIT JAM Geology 2026?
Very important! Solve papers from the last 7-8 years to understand question patterns, difficulty level, and essential topics.
12. How many previous year papers should I solve?
Solve at least 10-12 previous year papers multiple times. This helps you identify repeating topics and question types.
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Questions related to JAM
Have a question related to JAM ?
Hello,
Yes, you can appear in IIT JAM with 65% in 12th because you don't need 12th marks in IIT JAM. In IIT JAM they need your bachelor's degree, and you must have a minimum aggregate mark of 55% in this degree; then you can appear in IIT JAM. This means overall IIT JAM doesn't need 12th marks; instead, it needs bachelor's degree marks.
I hope it resolves your query!!
Rahul Mandal 19 July,2025
Yes, the IIT JAM Mathematics syllabus is mostly the same as what is taught in B.Sc. Mathematics. Core topics like Calculus, Algebra, Differential Equations, and Real Analysis overlap. However, JAM tests deeper understanding and problem-solving skills, often at a higher difficulty level than typical B.Sc. exams. Some topics may also be covered more rigorously or appear in more applied forms. So while the syllabus is similar, focused preparation is needed to match JAM’s level.
OISHEE BANERJEE 12 July,2025
Hello
With an IIT JAM rank of 2167 in the General category, top-tier Indian Institutes of Technology such as IIT Delhi, IIT Bombay, IIT Kanpur, and IIT Banaras Hindu University are unlikely options, as their closing ranks are typically in the low hundreds to a few thousands. However, you are still in a good position for several reputable government colleges through both the IIT JAM counselling and the Centralised Counselling for Master of Science and Technology (CCMN) channels.
If you belong to the Scheduled Caste category, you have a strong chance at getting admission to IIT Banaras Hindu University in the Master of Science in Physics program.
If you are in the General category, apply through the Centralised Counselling for Master of Science and Technology to National Institutes of Technology such as NIT Silchar, NIT Srinagar, and others.
You should register for the Centralised Counselling for Master of Science and Technology for admission to National Institutes of Technology and Centrally Funded Technical Institutions, and carefully prioritize your preferences in subjects like Physics, Chemistry, or Mathematics.
You may also explore the Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research option:
If you are interested, register for the IISER Aptitude Test and aim for a rank below approximately 2000.
Keep alternative plans in mind:
Consider reputable National Institutes of Technology in your state or nearby, such as the National Institute of Technology Agartala, National Institute of Technology Nagpur, and similar institutions
Abhi sonkar 10 July,2025
Hello aspirant,
Yes you can definitely appear for IIT JAM without mathematics in class 12, as JAM is based on your Bachelor's degree background. It depends on the subject you choose for your bachelor's degree and your graduation. You can also keep checking the IIT JAM eligibility pdf for your target subject.
Parvathy S 12 July,2025
Hello ma'am
Thankyou for reaching out!
IIT JAM is for Msc.courses which are after a bachelor's degree.Eligiblity for IIT JAM Biotechnology you need a bachelor's degree in Biotechnology,Biology,Life Sciences with atleast 55% marks.
Maths in 12th is not compulsory for Biotechnology you just need a relevant Bachelor's degree to be eligible
Taabia Fathima 08 July,2025
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