Uncover layers of UPSC Geo-Scientist examination with geologist Talilepden

DIMAPUR — Geology was not as popular as other traditional science subjects, so Talilepden Longkumer was initially unaware of it. However, he gradually realised that geology matched his personality and interests – adventure, travel, and outdoor work – after he joined Kohima Science College (KSC). From then on, he set his sights on clearing the UPSC Geo-Scientist Examination, despite pressure to pursue civil services exam.

Originally from Ungma village in Mokokchung, Talilepden graduated from KSC and completed his post-graduation at Kumaun University, Nainital. He cleared the NET JRF (AIR-132) in 2019, and passed the UPSC Geo-Scientist exam in 2020, both on his first attempt. He is currently posted in Raipur, Chhattisgarh, as a geologist with the Geological Survey of India under Ministry of Mines.

With a passion for travel, which lets him explore new places, experience different cultures, and meet new people, Talilepden believes that life is full of arbitrary limits. He encourages setting one’s own rules and finding freedom by following what you truly love, rather than meeting others’ expectations.

In an interview with Eastern Mirror, the geologist shares his exam (UPSC Geo-Scientist) strategy, tips for candidates, and details about training and job responsibilities.

What interests and skills are key to becoming a geoscientist? 

A strong interest in science and a love for nature are the most important elements in becoming a geoscientist. The geosciences integrate biology, chemistry, mathematics, physics, and engineering. If you enjoy working outdoors, you will find this field of earth sciences a rewarding area of study. Field trips are common, where you get to apply classroom knowledge to real-world situations.

Do you believe it is feasible to start preparing for the UPSC Geoscientist exam while still in college?

Any competitive examination requires dedication, discipline and effective time management which is quite difficult for many aspirants. Personally, I would recommend to start early and build a strong foundation on what examination they opt for in future so that the aspirant will gain numerous advantages, be it notes preparation, adapting to exam pattern, time and syllabus coverage. But it is essential to find the right balance and not neglect college studies as well.

          Can you explain the exam pattern and structure of the exam?

Geo-Scientist examination is conducted by the UPSC for the posts of Geologist and Geophysicist, Chemist and Hydrogeologist (Group ‘A’) in the Geological Survey of India and Central Ground Water Board. The UPSC conducts Geo-Scientist Exam in three stages:

1) Preliminary examination, which is a computer-based online exam comprising two papers – the General Studies Paper which is common for all the streams and one Optional Paper.

2) Main/Written Examination consists of four subject-specific papers with the 4th paper optional for hydrogeologists.

3) Finally, the Interview/Personality test.

For aspirants, could you outline a straightforward target/study technique they can follow?

Here are some of my step guides for my exam preparation. Firstly, understand the exam pattern and go through the previous years’ questions multiple times. Once you get acquainted with that, gather necessary study materials and start making notes for each paper according to the syllabus, and keep it precise and concise. Revise regularly what you have learned because the syllabus is vast. From my experience, integrating your college notes keeping in mind the UPSC syllabus will save your time and effort. Lastly, don’t neglect your physical and mental well-being and stay positive and motivated.

Considering there are four papers in the Main Exam, could you break down a study plan for candidates to help them enhance their retention?

Given the extensive syllabus, most candidates frequently find difficulties in retaining the information they study. A well-structured revision plan is essential for effective preparation. It helps in organising your study material and ensures comprehensive coverage of the syllabus. Step 1: Recognising when you are most attentive helps you determine the best times to study. Step 2: Take time to reflect and review the concepts of what you are studying. Focus more on conceptual clarity rather than grasping the content. Step 3: Prioritise more time to subjects that need more attention or focus and are challenging in nature. Step 4: Try to link concepts across subjects for overall understanding. Step 5: Always remind yourself of your goal and include leisure activities and hobbies that provide a mental break and relaxation which is very necessary.

Which reference books/materials were your top recommendations for the exam that aspiring students can also use?

For Prelims, follow standard books and National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) textbooks along with current affairs and make precise notes on them regularly. Give ample time to prepare for prelims and revise regularly to remember all the concepts. Cover all the concepts required for the UPSC Combined Geo-Scientist Exam holistically on time.

What strategies can aspirants use to identify their learning style and tailor their note-taking methods?

Before making notes, I think aspirants need to understand their learning style. Whether they are a visual learner who benefits from diagrams and charts or comfortable with textual information. For me I find it easy to study and retain by incorporating more visuals, diagrams, and flowcharts/tables, etc. which enhance my understanding and make learning more enjoyable. I also dedicated at least 2-3 hours preparing notes along with my university studies which was a bit difficult for me but there is no short cut to success. With voluminous textbooks and study materials, do resist the temptation to note down every single detail. Instead, focus on the core concepts, key facts, and important examples by preparing notes in bullet points, headings, and subheadings to organise your notes effectively. These notes become your quick reference guide for efficient revision during the exam. I also kept tables/ chats/ maps/ pasted all over my study table so that I can see daily and I also encourage aspirants to use the internet extensively while preparing for notes.

Is coaching necessary for clearing any competitive examination?

One of the main benefits of coaching is that it provides students with a structured study plan and creates a comprehensive study plan for students that includes topics that need to be covered, the number of hours to be spent on each topic, and the resources that need to be used. But your self-study, consistency and the hard work you put in sitting at your study table matters far more than what you do in coaching classes. Today, the internet provides easy access to information, and students should take advantage of this resource. Moreover, several online websites have emerged as brilliant and affordable alternatives to traditional coaching institutes. Coaching alone is not enough to guarantee success.

Could you share some golden rules that can assist aspirants in the interview round?

Interview is one of the most important moments in exam preparation to decide your destiny. Here are some golden rules that every aspirant needs to keep in mind before and during the interview: 

Be optimistic and start your preparation early. Start knowing about yourself and go through DAF (Detailed Application Form) multiple times. Never be overconfident because you never know when your luck ditches you. The UPSC interview is not at all easy but you can make it up with confidence and a positive attitude. Don’t lie, be honest and speak the truth. Remember that interview board members are more experienced and more knowledgeable than you, they can easily catch your lies. Another important aspect during the interview is body language. What you are saying must be coordinated and aligned. Do not pretend. Be yourself. Lastly, your attire reveals your personality; dress formally, and maintain a neat and clean appearance.

What is the training process like after clearing the exam, and what can candidates expect in their daily job responsibilities?

New recruits undergo an induction/training programme with the duration and content of the training vary, based on the specific role. During training the officers are trained at several training centres located in many parts of the country. The training covers various aspects of geology, fieldwork techniques, research methodologies, safety protocols and various geoscientific aspects.

The life of a geologist can be both rewarding and challenging. Geologists often spend considerable time in the field, conducting surveys, collecting samples, and studying geological formations. This can involve travel to remote locations and varying weather conditions. When not in the field, geologists typically analyse data, prepare reports, and collaborate with other scientists.

Geoscientists are stewards of Earth’s resources and environment. They work to understand natural processes on earth and other planets. Geoscientists may be found sampling the deep ocean floor or examining rock specimens from the moon or Mars. But the work of most geoscientists is more “down to Earth”. They work as explorers for new mineral and hydrocarbon resources, consultants on engineering and environmental problems, researchers, exploration, etc.

RAPID INSIGHTS

Top 5 must-visit places in India

i) Andaman and Nicobar Islands

ii) Ladakh

iii) Himachal Pradesh

iv) Rajasthan

v) Goa

Best fieldwork experience so far

Each fieldwork experience has its highlights, and I feel lucky to have travelled across nearly every state in India – some of them include studying billion-year-old rocks in Chitradurga, Karnataka, working in Rajasthan and surrounding Aravalli Craton was also an experience I always remember. Not forgetting, doing fieldwork in the mighty Himalayas and Deccan Traps of Maharashtra.

What do you miss about home?

Most of all, I really miss my parents, siblings, friends, and not forgetting, Naga food. I have missed a lot of family time over the past 11 years, but it is what it is.