RPSC Technical Assistant (Geophysics) Exam Pattern 2025
Exam Pattern Overview
The Rajasthan Public Service Commission (RPSC) Technical Assistant (Geophysics) examination is conducted for recruitment to the Ground Water Department of Rajasthan. The exam is structured into a single paper divided into two parts:
- Part-A: General Knowledge of Rajasthan (40 questions, 40 marks)
- Part-B: Concerned Subject (Geophysics) (110 questions, 110 marks)
The total examination comprises 150 multiple-choice questions (MCQs) carrying 150 marks, to be completed in 2 hours and 30 minutes. Negative marking is applicable, with one-third (1/3) of the marks deducted for each incorrect answer.
Paper Structure
The examination is divided into two parts, as detailed below:
Part-A: General Knowledge of Rajasthan
This section evaluates candidates' knowledge of Rajasthan's history, culture, geography, and socio-economic development. The syllabus for Part-A is structured into three units:
| Unit | Topic | Key Areas |
|---|---|---|
| I | History, Culture & Heritage of Rajasthan | Pre & early history, Rajput age, modern Rajasthan, visual and performing arts, religious cults, dialects, and literature |
| II | Geography, Natural Resources & Socio-Economic Development of Rajasthan | Physical features, rivers, lakes, climate, soil types, forest distribution, minerals, power resources, and major industries |
| III | Current Events and Issues of Rajasthan and India | Important persons, places, national and international events, and recent welfare schemes |
Number of Questions: 40 Total Marks: 40
Part-B: Concerned Subject (Geophysics)
This section tests candidates' expertise in geophysics, covering 13 key topics:
| S.No. | Topic | Key Areas |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mathematical Methods in Geophysics | Scalars, vectors, tensors, vector analysis, Laplace Transform, complex variables, numerical techniques |
| 2 | Solid Earth Geophysics | Introduction to geophysics, solar system formation, plate tectonics, thermal history, gravity, isostasy, geomagnetism |
| 3 | Geophysical Signal Processing | Signals, sampling theorem, Fourier series, Fourier transform, digital filters, Z transform |
| 4 | Earthquake Seismology | Introduction to seismology, earthquake phenomena, intensity and magnitude scales, seismic waves, earthquake prediction |
| 5 | Remote Sensing and GIS Applications | Fundamental concepts of remote sensing, electromagnetic spectrum, satellite remote sensing, GIS spatial data analysis |
| 6 | Geophysical Well Logging | Objectives of well logging, borehole conditions, formation parameters, interpretation of geophysical logs |
| 7 | Gravity and Magnetic Methods | Principles of gravity and magnetic methods, Bouguer gravity anomaly, magnetic susceptibility, interpretation of anomalies |
| 8 | Electrical Methods | Electrical properties of rocks, D.C. resistivity method, SP method, induced polarization |
| 9 | Geohydrology | Water-bearing formations, porosity, permeability, Darcy's Law, groundwater movement |
| 10 | Electromagnetic and Magnetotelluric Methods | Maxwell's equations, electromagnetic methods, magnetotelluric fields, interpretation of EM anomalies |
| 11 | Seismic Method | Basic principles of seismic methods, seismic data acquisition, reflection and refraction principles, interpretation of seismic data |
| 12 | Geophysical Inversion | Inverse theory, linear inverse problems, least square solutions, matrix theory |
| 13 | Geophysical Equipments | Principles and operations of gravitymeters, magnetometers, resistivity meters, seismographs, GPR |
Number of Questions: 110 Total Marks: 110
Marking Scheme
The marking scheme for the RPSC Technical Assistant (Geophysics) examination is as follows:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Marks | 150 |
| Total Questions | 150 (MCQs) |
| Marks per Question | 1 |
| Negative Marking | Yes (1/3 mark deducted for each wrong answer) |
| Unattempted Questions | If no option is selected, 1/3 mark is deducted. If option '5' is selected for unattempted questions, no marks are deducted. |
| Disqualification Rule | Candidates who do not darken any of the five circles in more than 10% of the questions will be disqualified. |
Instructions for OMR Sheet:
- Each question has five options (1, 2, 3, 4, 5).
- Candidates must darken only one circle indicating the correct answer using a blue ballpoint pen.
- It is mandatory to fill one option for each question.
- Extra time of 10 minutes is provided beyond the scheduled duration to ensure all circles are darkened.
Time Duration
The RPSC Technical Assistant (Geophysics) examination is conducted for a total duration of 2 hours and 30 minutes. The time allocation is as follows:
| Part | Subject | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Part-A | General Knowledge of Rajasthan | 2 Hours 30 Minutes (combined for both parts) |
| Part-B | Concerned Subject (Geophysics) | 2 Hours 30 Minutes (combined for both parts) |
Exam-Day Tips
Follow these tips to ensure a smooth and successful examination experience:
Before the Exam
- Review the Syllabus: Thoroughly revise all topics mentioned in the syllabus for both Part-A and Part-B.
- Practice MCQs: Solve previous years' question papers and mock tests to familiarize yourself with the exam pattern and time management.
- Understand Negative Marking: Be cautious while answering questions, as incorrect answers will lead to a deduction of 1/3 marks.
- Prepare Documents: Carry your admit card, a valid photo ID proof, and a blue ballpoint pen to the examination center.
- Check Exam Center: Visit the exam center a day before the exam to avoid last-minute confusion.
During the Exam
- Read Instructions Carefully: Follow all instructions provided on the OMR sheet and question paper.
- Time Management: Allocate time wisely between Part-A and Part-B. Aim to complete Part-A within 45-50 minutes to leave ample time for Part-B.
- Answer Strategically: Attempt questions you are confident about first. Mark difficult questions for review and return to them later.
- Darken Circles Correctly: Ensure you darken the correct circle on the OMR sheet. Use the extra 10 minutes provided to verify all answers.
- Avoid Guesswork: Refrain from guessing answers, as negative marking can significantly impact your score.
After the Exam
- Verify Answers: Double-check your OMR sheet to ensure all answers are correctly marked.
- Stay Calm: Avoid discussing the exam with others to prevent unnecessary stress.
- Plan Ahead: Prepare for the next stages of the recruitment process, such as document verification and interviews.
Additional Guidelines for Candidates
- Eligibility Criteria: Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria, including educational qualifications and age limits. Candidates must possess at least a II class M.Sc./M.Tech. in Geophysics from a recognized university and have working knowledge of Hindi written in Devnagri script and Rajasthani culture.
- Age Limit: The minimum age is 20 years, and the maximum age is 40 years as of January 1, 2025. Age relaxations are applicable for reserved categories as per government norms.
- Application Process: Submit your application online through the RPSC official website (https://rpsc.rajasthan.gov.in) within the specified dates. Ensure all details are accurate before final submission.
- Admit Card: Download your admit card from the RPSC website. Admit cards will not be sent by post.
- Results: Results will be published on the RPSC website. Keep track of updates and notifications.
Important Notes
- Negative Marking: For every wrong answer, one-third (1/3) of the marks assigned to that question will be deducted.
- Disqualification: Candidates who do not darken any of the five circles in more than 10% of the questions will be disqualified.
- Use of Blue Ballpoint Pen: Only blue ballpoint pens are to be used for darkening circles on the OMR sheet.
- No Electronic Devices: Mobile phones, calculators, or any electronic devices are not allowed inside the examination hall.
- Valid ID Proof: Carry a valid photo ID proof (Aadhar card, PAN card, voter ID, or passport) along with your admit card.
Sources
The exam pattern and syllabus are based on the official notification released by the Rajasthan Public Service Commission (RPSC) for the Technical Assistant (Geophysics) post in the Ground Water Department. For further details, refer to the official RPSC website and notifications.