The Fundamentals of Geology (FG) and Practice of Geology (PG) examinations cover eight core content domains. Each domain has a detailed knowledge base and set of task statements derived from the nationwide Task Analysis Survey. Explore and download specific guides for each content area below.
General Geology
Field geology techniques, geologic mapping, map scales, projection coordinate systems, aerial photography, remote sensing, geophysics, sub-surface investigations, and regulatory compliance frameworks.
Mineral/Pet/Geochem
Rock and mineral identification, physical/chemical properties, crystal structures, petrogenetic models for igneous/metamorphic/sedimentary rocks, geochemical kinetics, and isotopic systems.
Sedimentology & Strat
Depositional environments, sediment transport mechanisms, stratigraphic correlation, sequence stratigraphy, biostratigraphy, facies analysis, basin dynamics, and paleontological classifications.
Geomorphology
Weathering processes, soils, mass wasting, glacial geology, coastal dynamics, eolian features, fluvial geomorphology, drainage patterns, slope stability, and surficial hazard mitigation.
Structure & Tectonics
Joints, faults, folds, structural cross-sections, stereonet projections, strain/stress analysis, plate tectonics, seismic reflection/refraction, and earthquake hazard assessments.
Hydrogeology
Aquifer types, porosity and permeability, Darcy's Law, groundwater flow equations, well design, pumping test analysis, solute transport, groundwater contamination, and water quality chemistry.
Engineering Geology
Soil and rock mechanics, geologic hazard mapping, tunnel/dam/foundation site investigations, slope stability calculations, geotechnical parameter testing, and geoconstruction safety.
Mineral & Energy Res.
Ore deposits, exploration models, resource/reserve classification, industrial minerals, oil/gas reservoirs, coal geology, geothermal energy systems, and mineral economics.
All Domains Combined
Download the complete, compiled reference knowledge base detailing all eight content domains in a single document for easier local searching and offline preparation.
Content Domain Weighting Reference
Please note that the relative percentage of exam questions allocated to each domain varies between the **Fundamentals of Geology (FG)** and the **Practice of Geology (PG)** examinations. The exact blueprints are updated every few years using surveys of practicing professional geologists. Consult the ASBOG Candidate Handbook for the current weighting matrix.