CFSG Module D: Simulation of Categorical Variables for Geology and Domain Modeling | Training course

The CFSG (Specialized Training Cycle in Geostatistics) is a high-level training program in mining geostatistics delivered by the Geostatistics Team from Mines Paris and Geovariances. This program aims to equip you with an in-depth understanding of geostatistics for mineral resource estimation, enabling you to create block models your company needs for confident mine planning when you return to work. Throughout the training, you will learn the theoretical aspects of the techniques presented and practice them through various exercises and a real-world project.

CFSG is intended for individuals whose time zone is aligned with Europe (France). It will be delivered online in 4 modules over 7 weeks during the first semester of 2026, starting in March.

This module is the last one of the CFSG series. At the end, you will be able to apply facies modeling techniques to produce accurate, realistic geological models.

THEORY

• Boundary analysis
  – Soft vs. hard boundary
• Theory of Indicators
  – From geology to indicators
  – Indicator statistical properties
  – Indicator variogram (modeling)
• Indicator Kriging
• Sequential Indicator Simulations (SIS)
• Truncated and Plurigaussian Simulations (TGS – PGS)
  – Reminders: the Gaussian Simulation approach for continuous variables (e.g. Turning Bands)
  – Ingredients: Indicators, dimension of the latent Gaussian field (mono-gaussian or pluri-gaussian), truncation rules
  – Modeling: Facies proportions and variograms of the underlying Gaussian Random Function
  – Non-conditional simulations
  – Conditional simulations:
  . Gibbs sampler for translating categorical constraints into Gaussian values
  . Conditional Gaussian simulations
• Introduction to other methods for modeling categorical variables
  – Bi-PGS
  – Multiple-point Statistics (MPS)
  – Potential methods for implicit modeling
  – Generative models

PRACTICE

Several exercises to learn how to compute a facies proportions model and run SIS and PGS with Isatis.neo Mining Edition.

Each module can be attended independently of the others. However, it is important to note that completion of Module A or having experience in geostatistics and Isatis.neo is a prerequisite for participation in any of these modules.

• Module A: Linear Geostatistics for Local Resource Estimation (mandatory)
  March 2-13 & March 23-April 3, 2026 – 20 days
  Master the fundamentals of spatial analysis, variography, and kriging. Learn to build reliable block models and quantify estimation precision.
• Module B: Nonlinear Geostatistics for Recoverable Resource Estimation (optional)
  April 13-17, 2026 – 5 days
  Explore nonlinear techniques to model grade-tonnage curves and estimate recoverable resources while accounting for cutoffs and mining selectivity.
• Module C: Simulation of Continuous Variables for Uncertainty and Risk Analysis (optional)
  May 18-22, 2026 – 5 days
  Learn conditional simulations to generate probabilistic resource models, assess spatial uncertainty, quantify risk, and support informed decision-making.

• Half of the training program is devoted to methodological presentations, and the other half to practical exercises to deepen understanding of the concepts.
  – Mines Paris professors give the methodological courses.
  – Geovariances consultants will drive the practical sessions from our French office.
  – For more convenience, these courses are recorded and made available to participants during the session and until one month after the end of the course.
• A typical training week would then be:
  – Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday: theoretical course (on a half-day) and hands-on practice with Isatis.neo Mining Edition (on the half-day following the theoretical course).
  – Friday: homework using Isatis.neo Mining Edition with compulsory rendering at the end of the day. Live corrections and comments from the teaching team. Validation of prior learning.
• CFSG is a full-time training. You are required to be present/connected for the duration of the sessions.
• CFSG is a certification training. The knowledge acquired in each module is validated through an examination. At the end of each module, you will receive a training certificate that officially confirms the module’s completion.
• Course material and a temporary software license are provided.
• A minimum of 8 participants is required for a module to proceed.

The CFSG training program is intended for mining geologists and engineers who are willing to achieve a high level of proficiency in geostatistics.

Module A is ideal for newcomers to mining geostatistics. Modules B to D are designed for individuals who wish to delve into more advanced geostatistics.

The course is delivered in English and requires a good level of this language. A sound understanding of mathematics is also recommended.

As the course is online, a good-quality internet connection is required. We also appreciate that the participant’s camera is turned on for the session.​

Benefit from the trainers’ high expertise in geostatistics

From Mines Paris – PSL

From Geovariances

What alumni say about CFSG