CSIR NET Earth Science Exam Pattern plays a crucial role for every candidate preparing for the Joint CSIR-UGC NET. Since the exam is conducted twice a year June and December, knowing the exact paper structure helps aspirants plan their preparation effectively and score efficiently. The exam is conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) on behalf of CSIR and UGC. For those aiming for a future in research, JRF, or Assistant Professorship in Earth Sciences, a clear understanding of the CSIR NET Earth Science Exam Pattern becomes essential.
The question paper is divided into three parts: Part A, Part B, and Part C, each designed to test different abilities of the candidate.
Part A: General Aptitude
Part A tests a candidate’s overall reasoning ability. It includes:
- Logical reasoning
- Numerical ability
- Data interpretation
This section is common for all CSIR NET subjects and assesses analytical and problem-solving skills.
Part B & Part C: Core Earth Science
Parts B and C form the core of the CSIR NET Earth Science Exam Pattern 2025, focusing entirely on Earth Science topics. Part B includes conceptual questions from core Earth Science areas, while Part C features higher-order analytical and application-based problems, requiring deep conceptual understanding and strong problem-solving skills.
CSIR NET Chemical Science Syllabus
CSIR NET Exam Overview
CSIR NET (Council of Scientific and Industrial Research National Eligibility Test) is a national-level competitive examination that evaluates candidates’ knowledge in core scientific disciplines. Understanding the CSIR NET Earth Science Exam Pattern is especially important for aspirants who wish to qualify in the Earth Sciences category, as the exam structure directly influences preparation strategy, time management, and scoring potential. Conducted jointly by the CSIR and the University Grants Commission (UGC), the exam helps select qualified professionals for research and teaching roles across India.
The CSIR NET is applicable only to science-based subjects, and candidates who clearly understand the CSIR NET Earth Science Exam Pattern are better positioned to qualify for the Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) or apply for Lectureship (LS)/Assistant Professor posts in recognized universities and colleges. Those who prepare effectively according to the CSIR NET Earth Science Exam Pattern can pursue fully funded PhD programs, secure top government fellowships, or build successful academic and research careers in prestigious institutions across the country.
| Parameter | Details |
| CSIR NET Full Form | Council of Scientific & Industrial Research, National Eligibility Test |
| Conducting Authority | National Testing Agency (NTA) |
| Exam Type | Computer Based Test (CBT) |
| Opportunities Offered | Candidates can apply for Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) and Lectureship |
| Number of Questions | 75–150 (Varies according to the subject chosen by candidates) |
| Total Marks | 200 |
| Type of Questions | MCQs (Multiple Choice Questions) |
| Exam Duration | 3 Hours |
| Eligibility Criteria | Minimum 55% in Bachelor’s Degree |
CSIR NET Mathematics Sciences Syllabus
CSIR NET Earth Science Exam Pattern Paper Detailed
CSIR NET Earth Science Exam Pattern provides a clear and detailed understanding of the paper structure, marking scheme, and distribution of questions that candidates must follow during the examination. A strong command over the CSIR NET Earth Science Exam Pattern helps aspirants plan smart strategies, manage their time effectively, and focus on high-weightage areas to maximize their score. Understanding how each section contributes to the overall CSIR NET Earth Science Exam Pattern is crucial for scoring well and meeting the eligibility criteria.
| CSIR NET Earth Science Paper Parts | Number of Questions (Questions to Attempt) | Marks |
| Part A | 20 (Attempt 15) | 30 |
| Part B | 50 (Attempt 35) | 70 |
| Part C | 80 (Attempt 25) | 100 |
| Total | 150 (Attempt 75) | 200 |
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| important topics for csir net Physical Science | important topics for csir net Life Science |
| important topics for csir net Chemistry | important topics for csir net Mathematics |
CSIR NET Earth Science Exam Pattern
| Particulars | Details |
| Mode of Examination | Computer Based Test (CBT) |
| Duration of Examination | 3 hours (180 minutes) |
| Language of Examination | English and Hindi |
| Total Number of Questions | 150 questions in total:
• Part A: 20 questions (attempt 15) • Part B: 50 questions (attempt 35) • Part C: 80 questions (attempt 25) |
| Total Marks | 200 marks:
• Part A: 30 marks (2 marks per correct answer) • Part B: 50 marks (2 marks per correct answer) • Part C: 100 marks (4 marks per correct answer) |
| Type of Questions | Objective Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) |
| Negative Marking | Part A & B: -0.5 marks per wrong answer
Part C: -1.32 marks per wrong answer |
Section Overview:
- Part A: Common for all CSIR NET subjects, this section tests general aptitude, including general science knowledge, quantitative reasoning, analytical skills, and research aptitude through MCQs.
- Part B: Focuses on subject-related questions covering core fundamentals of Earth Science through conventional MCQs.
- Part C: Consists of advanced subject-specific MCQs that emphasize specialized topics within Earth Science, requiring deeper conceptual understanding and application skills.
- CSIR NET Mathematics Sciences Syllabus
CSIR NET Earth Science Exam Pattern Minimum Qualifying Marks
After reviewing the CSIR NET Earth Science Exam Pattern, it is crucial for candidates to understand the minimum qualifying marks required to clear the exam. Aspirants aiming for a career as a Junior Research Fellow (JRF) or Assistant Professor in Earth Science must score above the prescribed threshold to be eligible.
Proper preparation according to the CSIR NET Earth Science Exam Pattern and syllabus is essential to achieve these marks. Candidates who do not meet the minimum score will not qualify for JRF or Lectureship eligibility.
| Category | Minimum Qualifying Marks |
| General / EWS / OBC | 33% |
| SC / ST / PWD | 25% |
CSIR NET Earth Science Syllabus
CSIR NET Earth Science Exam Pattern PYQs PDF Download
Practicing CSIR NET Earth Science Previous Years’ Question Papers (PYQs) is one of the most effective ways to prepare for the exam, especially to get a real understanding of the CSIR NET Earth Science Exam Pattern. Solving past papers helps candidates analyze the question types, marking scheme, difficulty level, and overall structure followed by the NTA.
Regular practice with PYQs not only familiarizes aspirants with the CSIR NET Earth Science Exam Pattern, but also enhances speed, accuracy, and problem-solving skills. It helps identify important chapters, frequently repeated concepts, and weak areas that need more attention. Consistent use of PYQs builds confidence and significantly increases the chances of qualifying for Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) or Assistant Professorship.
Candidates can download CSIR NET Earth Science Previous Year Question Papers PDFs from multiple years and exam shifts to strengthen preparation and understand question trends according to the latest CSIR NET Earth Science Exam Pattern.
CSIR NET Earth Science Previous Years Question Papers 2018–2025 PDFs
Download the CSIR NET Earth Science exam can easily download the previous years’ question papers from 2018 to 2024 in PDF format. These papers are highly valuable for understanding the exam pattern, difficulty level, and types of questions asked in the examination. To access the CSIR NET Earth Science Previous Year Question Papers PDF, refer to the table provided below.
important topics for csir net Life Science
CSIR NET Earth Science Previous Question Paper PDF
| June | December | |||
| Year | Question Paper | Answer key | Question Paper | Answer key |
| CSIR NET Earth SciencePrevious Question Paper PDF 2025 | Download Link | Download Link | ||
| CSIR NET Earth SciencePrevious Question Paper PDF 2024 | Download Link | Download Link | Download Link | Download Link |
| CSIR NET Earth Science Previous Question Paper PDF 2023 | Download Link | Download Link | Download Link | Download Link |
| CSIR NET Earth Science Previous Question Paper PDF 2020 | Download Link | Download Link | ||
| CSIR NET Earth Science Previous Question Paper PDF 2019 | Earth Science
Download Link |
Download Link | ||
| CSIR NET Earth Science Previous Question Paper PDF 2018 | Earth Sciences A|B|C
Download Link |
Download Link | Earth Sciences A|B|C
Download Link |
Download Link |
CSIR NET Physical Science Syllabus
Best Books for CSIR NET Earth Science Preparation
Books are the most reliable source of knowledge for candidates preparing for the CSIR NET Earth Science Exam Pattern. Selecting the right study material is crucial, as the quality of books directly affects conceptual understanding, exam readiness, and final score.
The recommended books cover the syllabus according to the latest CSIR NET Earth Science Exam Pattern and help build strong conceptual clarity. While studying, candidates should make concise notes, highlight key points, and revise regularly. Special attention should be given to high-weightage topics such as Geomorphology, Geophysics, Petrology, Mineralogy, and Structural Geology to score well in Parts B and C of the exam.
| Topic | Recommended Book | Author | Remarks |
| Geomorphology | Principles of Geomorphology | W. D. Thornbury | Comprehensive conceptual clarity with diagrams |
| Geophysics | Fundamentals of Geophysics | William Lowrie & Andreas Fichtner | Covers theory, numerical problems, and practical applications |
| Structural Geology | Structural Geology | Haakon Fossen | Strong conceptual depth with field examples |
| Mineralogy | Manual of Mineralogy | Hurlbut & Klein | Essential for diagrams, examples, and numerical practice |
| Petrology | Igneous & Metamorphic Petrology (optional) | Best reference books based on syllabus | Helps strengthen understanding of rock types and processes |
important topics for csir net Physical Science
Effective Ways to Use CSIR NET Earth Science Previous Year Question Papers
Using CSIR NET Earth Science Previous Year Question Papers (PYQs) strategically can greatly enhance your preparation and help you align with the CSIR NET Earth Science Exam Pattern. Follow these steps to get the maximum benefit:
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Understand the Exam Pattern
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- Begin by reviewing the structure of the CSIR NET Earth Science Exam Pattern and the marking scheme. Knowing the format beforehand allows you to prepare with clarity and confidence.
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Analyze Previous Papers
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- Go through past question papers to identify the difficulty level, frequently asked topics, and trends. This gives a clear insight into which areas are high-weightage according to the CSIR NET Earth Science Exam Pattern.
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Practice Consistently
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- Make solving previous year papers a regular part of your study routine. Consistent practice improves accuracy, builds speed, and strengthens conceptual understanding in line with the CSIR NET Earth Science Exam Pattern.
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Improve Time Management
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- Attempt papers within a fixed time frame to simulate exam conditions. This trains you to manage time effectively and ensures completion of all sections according to the CSIR NET Earth Science Exam Pattern.
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Review Your Performance
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- After completing each paper, carefully evaluate your answers. Identify mistakes, note weak areas, and refine your preparation strategy to match the CSIR NET Earth Science Exam Pattern requirements.
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Seek Guidance When Needed
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- For difficult concepts or challenging questions, consult teachers, mentors, or trusted online resources. Clarifying doubts strengthens your understanding and boosts confidence, helping you tackle the CSIR NET Earth Science Exam Pattern more effectively
important topics for csir net Mathematics
CSIR NET Earth Science Topic-Wise Weightage
Understanding topic-wise weightage is a crucial strategy in CSIR NET Earth Science Exam Pattern preparation. Knowing which topics carry higher marks helps candidates plan study time effectively and focus on high-impact areas.
Part A: General Aptitude
| Topic / Unit | Weightage |
| Logical Reasoning | 20% |
| Numerical Ability | 20% |
| Graph Interpretation | 15% |
| Data Interpretation | 15% |
| Algebra & Arithmetic | 10% |
| Geometry & Mensuration | 10% |
| Series & Pattern Recognition | 10% |
Part B & C: Earth Science
| Topic / Unit | Part B (%) | Part C (%) |
| Geology | 30% | 35% |
| Geophysics | 20% | 20% |
| Meteorology | 15% | 10% |
| Oceanography | 10% | 10% |
| Atmospheric Science | 10% | 10% |
| Environmental Earth Science | 10% | 10% |
| Planetary Sciences | 5% | 5% |
Additional CSIR NET Earth Science Preparation Tips
Practice and Learn with Diagrams & Graphs
Mastering diagrams and graphical representations is essential for CSIR NET Earth Science Exam Pattern preparation. Many questions in the exam require interpreting graphs, phase diagrams, plots, and geological illustrations. Strong diagram skills enhance conceptual clarity and improve accuracy in the exam.
Topics Where Diagrams Are Essential:
- Igneous & Metamorphic Petrology (Phase diagrams like binary eutectic, ternary systems)
- Sedimentology (Hjulström diagram, phase relations, grain size charts)
- Oceanography & Atmospheric Sciences (TS diagrams, thermocline, lapse rate graphs, Walker circulation)
- Micropaleontology (Morphology sketches, chamber arrangements)
- Geophysics (Travel-time curves, Bouguer anomaly graphs)
- Mineralogy (Crystal systems, stereographic projections)
- Structural Geology (Mohr circle, stress/strain graphs, fold geometry)
- Geochemistry (Spider diagrams, REE patterns)
Mastering these visual tools gives a strong edge in solving both Part B and Part C questions.
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Practice Numerical Problems Regularly
Numerical questions carry high weightage, especially in Part C. Regular practice is essential to increase speed and accuracy.
Important Numerical-Based Topics:
- Geophysics (gravity, magnetics, seismic refraction/reflection)
- Structural Geology (dip, strike, true thickness, apparent dip)
- Isostasy (Airy & Pratt models)
- Petrology (thermodynamic calculations, phase rule)
- Geochemistry (distribution coefficients, radiometric dating)
Numerical questions often appear straightforward but require conceptual clarity and careful calculation to avoid negative marking.
CSIR NET Mathematics Sciences Syllabus
CSIR NET Earth Science Cutoff Trends
Understanding previous year cutoffs helps estimate:
Candidates must aim to score above the cutoff to secure a position in the JRF or Assistant Professor category.
CSIR NET Earth Science Exam Pattern Cutoff Previous Year Category-wise %
Understanding the CSIR NET Earth Science Exam Pattern is essential for analyzing previous year cutoff trends. Category-wise percentage cutoffs provide insight into the minimum scores required for qualifying as a Junior Research Fellow (JRF) or Assistant Professor. Reviewing these trends helps candidates align their preparation strategy according to the CSIR NET Earth Science Exam Pattern and focus on high-weightage topics to maximize their chances of success.
| Post | UR | EWS | OBC | SC | ST | PwD |
| Junior Research Fellow (JRF) | 60.29% | 55.45% | 53.79% | 48.04% | 45.74% | 32.33% |
| Assistant Professor (AP) | 54.261% | 49.905% | 48.411% | 43.236% | 41.166% | 29.097% |
CSIR NET Mathematics Sciences Syllabus
CSIR NET Earth Science Exam Pattern FAQs
Part A & B carry 2 marks per correct answer, Part C carries 4 marks. Negative marking is -0.5 for Part A & B and -1.32 for Part C. General/EWS/OBC candidates must score 33%, while SC/ST/PwD candidates require 25% to qualify. Recommended books include Principles of Geomorphology by Thornbury, Fundamentals of Geophysics by Lowrie & Fichtner, Structural Geology by Fossen, and Manual of Mineralogy by Hurlbut & Klein. Practicing previous years’ papers improves speed, accuracy, time management, and understanding of high-weightage topics according to the CSIR NET Earth Science Exam Pattern. Geology, Geophysics, Petrology, Mineralogy, and Structural Geology are high-weightage topics for Parts B and C. 
What is the marking scheme of the CSIR NET Earth Science Exam Pattern?
What are the minimum qualifying marks in CSIR NET Earth Science?
Which books are best for CSIR NET Earth Science preparation?
How can previous year question papers help in preparation?
What topics have the highest weightage in CSIR NET Earth Science?
