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

Apply geostatistical simulation methods to model geological domains, lithology, and facies. Capture and represent spatial variability in categorical variables.

5-day course – June 15-19, 2026 – Level: Advanced

Objectives

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 the block models your company needs for confident mine planning upon your 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.

Module Content

This module is the fourth and 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.

Additional modules

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 how to use conditional simulations to generate probabilistic resource models, assess spatial uncertainty, quantify risk, and support informed decision-making.

Outlines

• 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 (on the half-day following the theoretical course).
  – Friday: homework using Isatis.neo 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.

Who should attend

The CFSG training program is intended for mining geologists and engineers seeking 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.

Prerequisites

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.​

Trainers

Benefit from the trainers’ high expertise in geostatistics.

What alumni say about CFSG

I’ve always wanted to join the CSFG training because it’s known as one of the best geostatistics centers in the world, and the online program was just as great as I expected! All the professors and tutors from CSFG truly exceeded my expectations. The theory course gave me a solid grasp of the fundamentals, and the practical sessions walked us through the full workflow from basic to advanced methods. It really deepened my understanding of how things work, when and why to use certain techniques, and helped me apply advanced methods like non-linear estimation and simulation in my work. They made complex concepts feel practical, such a valuable experience that I honestly wish it could’ve lasted longer!

Nuresa Nugraha – CFSG 2025
Geoscience Team – Resource Geologist – Merdeka Mining Servis

The CFSG course through A, B, C, D, etc. modules is a complete practical geostatistical training programme.
For beginners and advanced mineral-estimation geologists, I highly recommend this programme with Isatis.neo Mining as application software.
The Isatis.neo Mining software has revolutionized the mineral estimation workflow, making it easy with a report generated as you progress.
The mineral resource estimation in the past was hindrances swapping between software; it is now easy and all in one package, from data validation to resource tabulation.

Massa Beavogui – CFSG 2025
Evaluation Superintendent – AngloGold Ashanti Siguiri Gold Mine

The CFSG training covered a wide range of geostatistical concepts during the theory sessions. I then had the ability to put these concepts into practice using Isatis.neo, allowing me to confirm my understanding and ask any further questions. I now have a deeper understanding of EDA, estimation, and validation, which will aid me in my current role. My geostatistical tool set has been greatly boosted since completing the CFSG program.

Marlies Barden – CFSG 2023
Senior Resource Geologist – Mineral Resources Limited

As an exploration/resource development geologist, the CFSG training program has not only allowed me to understand better geostatistics and resource estimation concepts (EDA, IDW, OK, MIK…), but it has also bridged my career path from a resource development geologist to a resource estimation geologist. Thanks to the Center of Geostatistics of Mines Paris and Geovariances and their very comprehensive CFSG program, I was able to learn and reach my career goal without leaving my job.

Lassana Sanogo – CFSG 2023
Senior Exploration and Resource Development Geologist – Resolute Mining (Syama Gold Mine)