The Geosteering and Formation Evaluation Training Course develops the technical capabilities required to integrate geological interpretation, logging-while-drilling measurements and real-time drilling data for accurate subsurface evaluation and effective well placement. Geosteering, Formation Evaluation and Geology are closely connected disciplines that support informed drilling decisions, particularly in complex reservoirs and horizontal well environments where geological uncertainty directly influences operational performance.
Oil and gas organisations increasingly rely on accurate subsurface information to optimise well trajectories, improve reservoir contact and reduce unnecessary drilling exposure. As exploration and development activities target more complex formations, conventional geological interpretation alone does not provide sufficient information for maintaining a wellbore within the intended reservoir interval. Drilling teams require an integrated understanding of formation properties, structural geology, directional drilling measurements and real-time interpretation techniques.
The Geosteering and Formation Evaluation Training Course offered by Institute For Oil & Gas Training addresses this technical requirement by examining the relationship between geological models, formation evaluation data and directional drilling operations. It provides a structured approach to interpreting geological and petrophysical information while drilling, recognising formation changes and adjusting well trajectories in response to subsurface conditions.
A central component of the course is the application of LWD principles to formation evaluation and operational decision-making. Logging-while-drilling technology provides measurements close to the bit or within the bottom-hole assembly, supporting the interpretation of formation characteristics during drilling operations. Understanding the capabilities and limitations of different LWD measurements enables technical teams to evaluate lithology, formation boundaries, porosity indicators, resistivity responses and reservoir characteristics.
The course also examines the interpretation of directional resistivity measurements and their contribution to real-time geosteering. Directional resistivity tools provide information about formation boundaries and geological features beyond the immediate wellbore environment. Their interpretation supports the identification of approaching bed boundaries, changes in formation geometry and potential deviations from the planned reservoir interval. These capabilities are particularly important in thin reservoirs, structurally complex formations and extended-reach horizontal wells.
Horizontal well interpretation is another important area addressed throughout the programme. Horizontal drilling requires an accurate understanding of formation dip, structural variations, stratigraphic changes and petrophysical properties. Small changes in well inclination or azimuth can influence reservoir exposure and the quality of formation evaluation. Participants examine how geological interpretation, measured-depth information, directional surveys and downhole measurements contribute to maintaining the intended well trajectory.
The programme further explores the relationship between pre-drill geological models and actual drilling observations. Geological prognosis provides the initial framework for well planning, but real-time information frequently reveals differences between predicted and encountered formations. Participants develop an understanding of how to compare planned and actual formation responses, assess geological uncertainty and communicate recommendations to drilling and subsurface teams.
Effective well placement requires collaboration between geologists, petrophysicists, reservoir engineers, drilling engineers and directional drilling specialists. Each discipline contributes different information to the decision-making process. The course therefore emphasises integrated interpretation rather than isolated analysis of individual logging measurements. It examines how geological, petrophysical and drilling information supports decisions about trajectory adjustments, reservoir entry, landing points and maintaining wellbore position within productive intervals.
Institute For Oil & Gas Training delivers this course for professionals involved in well planning, formation evaluation, directional drilling, reservoir characterisation and drilling operations. It provides a practical understanding of how geosteering and formation evaluation contribute to drilling efficiency, reservoir understanding and asset performance.
Explain the geological and petrophysical principles supporting geosteering and formation evaluation in oil and gas wells.
Interpret geological models, stratigraphic information and structural features relevant to well planning.
Explain LWD principles and identify the applications of different logging-while-drilling measurements.
Evaluate formation characteristics using resistivity, gamma ray and other relevant formation evaluation measurements.
Interpret directional resistivity responses and recognise their importance in identifying formation boundaries.
Analyse horizontal well interpretation data to assess wellbore position relative to geological targets.
Correlate real-time logging measurements with offset well information and pre-drill geological prognosis.
Identify formation changes, structural variations and geological uncertainties affecting the planned well trajectory.
Apply real-time geosteering principles to evaluate well placement decisions during drilling.
Assess the relationship between formation dip, well inclination, azimuth and reservoir exposure.
Integrate geological, petrophysical and directional drilling information into a consistent interpretation.
Evaluate alternative well trajectory recommendations against geological objectives and drilling constraints.
Recognise the operational limitations and uncertainties associated with LWD measurements and real-time interpretation.
Improve technical communication between geologists, petrophysicists, drilling engineers and directional drilling personnel.
Support more consistent and technically justified well placement decisions throughout the drilling process.
The Geosteering and Formation Evaluation Training Course combines technical presentations, practical interpretation exercises, industry case studies, geological modelling discussions and simulated operational scenarios. The delivery approach connects subsurface theory with the decisions encountered during actual drilling operations. Participants examine how different sources of geological and logging information contribute to well placement and how interpretation quality influences operational recommendations.
Technical presentations introduce the geological and petrophysical principles behind formation evaluation, LWD measurements, directional resistivity and horizontal well interpretation. These sessions establish a consistent technical foundation for evaluating formation characteristics and understanding the information generated by downhole measurement systems.
Case studies demonstrate how geosteering teams interpret geological changes while drilling through heterogeneous and structurally complex formations. Participants examine examples involving formation boundaries, unexpected lithological changes, variations in resistivity responses and differences between predicted and actual geological conditions. These scenarios develop an appreciation of the uncertainties involved in real-time subsurface interpretation.
Practical interpretation exercises focus on the relationship between measured-depth data, formation tops, well trajectories, resistivity logs and geological correlation. Participants review representative logging responses, identify significant formation changes and consider how these observations influence decisions about the well path. The exercises reinforce the importance of interpreting multiple data sources together rather than relying on individual measurements.
Simulated geosteering scenarios provide opportunities to assess changing subsurface conditions and evaluate possible trajectory adjustments. Participants consider the technical implications of remaining within a target formation, approaching a reservoir boundary or encountering unexpected structural changes. The emphasis is on developing a systematic interpretation process and communicating recommendations clearly to the relevant operational personnel.
Group exercises encourage collaboration between geological, petrophysical and drilling disciplines. Participants discuss the information required to make well placement decisions, evaluate alternative interpretations and examine the operational consequences of different recommendations. This approach reflects the multidisciplinary nature of geosteering operations.
Real-world operational scenarios also address the communication and coordination requirements associated with real-time geosteering. Participants examine how information from the wellsite, remote operations centres and subsurface teams contributes to timely decisions. The methodology strengthens technical judgement, data integration and the ability to translate formation evaluation results into practical drilling recommendations.
Effective geosteering and formation evaluation contribute directly to the quality of drilling decisions and the commercial performance of oil and gas developments. Organisations that integrate geological interpretation with real-time drilling information strengthen their ability to manage subsurface uncertainty, optimise well trajectories and achieve reservoir development objectives.
A stronger understanding of formation evaluation and geosteering supports more informed decisions about landing points, horizontal well trajectories and reservoir intervals. Technical personnel develop the ability to interpret formation boundaries and assess changes in geological conditions. This improves the consistency of well placement decisions and strengthens alignment between drilling execution and subsurface objectives.
Accurate horizontal well interpretation enables organisations to assess whether the wellbore remains within the intended productive interval. Improved interpretation of formation dip, structural variations and directional resistivity responses supports decisions that optimise reservoir exposure. Maintaining the planned well trajectory within the target formation contributes to more effective contact with the intended reservoir section.
Real-time geosteering supports timely evaluation of geological conditions and reduces reliance on assumptions that no longer reflect the formations encountered during drilling. Better interpretation of LWD measurements enables teams to identify significant geological changes and evaluate appropriate operational adjustments. This strengthens drilling coordination and supports more efficient utilisation of rig time and technical resources.
Integrating pre-drill geological models, offset well information and real-time formation measurements improves the quality of subsurface interpretation. Organisations develop a more structured approach to identifying differences between predicted and encountered formations. Effective uncertainty management supports technically justified operational decisions and improves the quality of geological information available for future well planning.
LWD measurements provide valuable formation information during drilling, but their operational value depends on accurate interpretation. Training strengthens the ability of personnel to evaluate measurement responses, recognise technical limitations and integrate different data sources. This enables organisations to gain greater value from formation evaluation technologies and improve the consistency of technical assessments.
Geosteering decisions involve several technical and operational disciplines. A better understanding of geological, petrophysical and directional drilling information enables teams to communicate more effectively. Improved coordination between wellsite geologists, remote operations personnel, drilling engineers and subsurface specialists supports clearer recommendations, faster technical communication and more consistent operational execution.
Well trajectory decisions influence drilling exposure, formation entry and the management of subsurface uncertainties. A systematic approach to geosteering strengthens the identification and assessment of geological changes that affect drilling objectives. This supports informed operational planning, improves the evaluation of potential drilling challenges and reduces the likelihood of decisions based on incomplete or poorly integrated information.
The course strengthens internal technical capabilities by developing a consistent understanding of formation evaluation and geosteering practices. Organisations benefit from improved knowledge sharing, more consistent interpretation methods and stronger technical collaboration across teams. These capabilities support workforce competency development, technical continuity and the effective utilisation of experienced personnel.
Accurate interpretation of drilled formations provides valuable information for subsequent well planning and reservoir characterisation activities. Organisations develop a clearer understanding of geological variability and the relationship between predicted and actual formation conditions. These insights support more informed development planning, improve geological model updates and strengthen technical decisions for future drilling programmes.
Participants develop an integrated understanding of the geological, petrophysical and operational principles that influence geosteering and formation evaluation. They strengthen their ability to interpret subsurface information and translate technical observations into recommendations relevant to drilling operations.
The course improves practical knowledge of LWD principles and the application of logging measurements during drilling. Participants develop greater confidence in interpreting resistivity responses, gamma ray measurements, formation boundaries and other relevant data used to evaluate subsurface conditions. They also gain a clearer understanding of how measurement limitations influence interpretation.
Professionals involved in horizontal drilling strengthen their ability to assess well trajectories against geological targets. They develop a better understanding of formation dip, structural changes, stratigraphic correlation and the interpretation of horizontal well data. These capabilities improve their contribution to discussions concerning landing points and well placement.
Participants also strengthen their understanding of real-time geosteering workflows. They learn how geological prognosis, drilling measurements and formation evaluation information contribute to operational decisions. This supports more systematic technical reasoning when formations differ from the original geological model.
The programme develops communication skills across multidisciplinary teams. Participants improve their ability to explain geological observations, present alternative interpretations and communicate the implications of proposed trajectory adjustments. This is particularly valuable for personnel working between wellsite operations and remote subsurface support teams.
For experienced professionals, the course provides an opportunity to consolidate existing knowledge and strengthen integration between geological and drilling disciplines. For personnel developing their responsibilities in formation evaluation or geosteering, it establishes a broader understanding of the technical information and operational considerations involved.
Successful participation supports professional development in well logging, formation evaluation, directional drilling, reservoir characterisation and drilling optimisation. Participants return to their organisations with a stronger technical foundation for contributing to well planning, real-time interpretation and operational decision-making.
Wellsite Geologists: To strengthen their ability to interpret geological changes and correlate real-time measurements with the geological prognosis.
Geosteering Geologists: To improve real-time formation interpretation and support technically justified well trajectory recommendations.
Petrophysicists: To develop a stronger understanding of LWD measurements and their application to formation evaluation.
Formation Evaluation Specialists: To improve the integration of logging responses, geological information and petrophysical interpretation.
Directional Drilling Engineers: To understand the geological considerations influencing horizontal well trajectories and well placement.
Drilling Engineers: To strengthen collaboration with geosteering teams and understand how formation evaluation influences drilling decisions.
Reservoir Engineers: To improve their understanding of reservoir exposure, geological variability and horizontal well placement.
LWD Engineers and Specialists: To strengthen their understanding of measurement applications and the interpretation requirements of geosteering operations.
MWD Engineers and Specialists: To understand the relationship between directional measurements, well trajectory information and geological interpretation.
Subsurface Team Leaders: To improve coordination between geological, petrophysical, reservoir and drilling functions.
Drilling Supervisors and Wellsite Supervisors: To strengthen their understanding of the subsurface factors influencing drilling recommendations.
Exploration and Development Geologists: To improve the application of geological models and formation correlation to well planning and execution.
Technical Managers and Department Heads: To strengthen technical oversight of formation evaluation, geosteering and well placement activities.
This module establishes the geological principles required for effective geosteering and formation evaluation. It examines the relationship between sedimentology, stratigraphy, structural geology and reservoir architecture, providing participants with an understanding of how geological features influence well trajectories, reservoir characteristics and well placement decisions.
The module also explores geological modelling, formation correlation and the interpretation of offset well information. Participants examine how geological prognosis supports target interval identification, how subsurface uncertainty influences well planning and how geological and engineering information contribute to informed exploration and development decisions.
Establishes recognised principles for classifying and evaluating petroleum resources and reserves.
Provides a consistent framework for integrating geological, geophysical and engineering information into resource assessments.
Addresses subsurface uncertainty and the evaluation of geological and development assumptions.
Supports the documentation and classification of petroleum resources throughout exploration and development activities.
Provides a basis for consistent technical communication and decision-making in petroleum resource management.
Explain the geological principles relevant to reservoir characterisation and geosteering.
Interpret stratigraphic and structural information used in well planning.
Identify geological features that influence formation boundaries and well trajectories.
Evaluate the role of offset well information in geological correlation.
Explain how geological uncertainty affects the interpretation of target intervals.
Assess the relationship between geological models and actual formation conditions encountered during drilling.
Understand how geological and engineering information contributes to petroleum resource evaluation and development planning.
This module examines the technologies and measurement principles used in logging while drilling. It explains how downhole measurements provide information about formation characteristics during drilling and how these measurements contribute to geological and petrophysical interpretation.
Participants examine the applications and interpretation of common LWD measurements, including gamma ray, resistivity, density and neutron responses where applicable. The module also addresses measurement quality, environmental influences, tool positioning and the limitations that affect the reliability of formation evaluation results.
Provides recommended practices for the rheological properties and hydraulics of drilling fluids.
Addresses the evaluation of drilling fluid behaviour under different operating conditions.
Supports understanding of drilling fluid properties relevant to wellbore conditions and downhole measurements.
Provides a recognised technical reference for drilling fluid hydraulics and related operational considerations.
Explain the operating principles and applications of LWD technologies.
Identify the formation evaluation information provided by common LWD measurements.
Interpret gamma ray and resistivity responses for formation identification.
Explain the applications of density and neutron measurements in petrophysical evaluation.
Recognise factors that influence measurement quality and interpretation reliability.
Integrate LWD information with geological prognosis and offset well data.
Evaluate the limitations of individual logging measurements when assessing formation characteristics.
This module focuses on the interpretation of geological and petrophysical information in horizontal and high-angle wells. It examines the challenges associated with interpreting formations when the wellbore follows a trajectory that intersects geological layers at changing angles.
Participants explore the relationship between well inclination, azimuth, formation dip and stratigraphic geometry. The module develops an understanding of horizontal well interpretation through the integration of LWD measurements, geological markers, offset well information and structural models.
Establishes principles for managing well integrity throughout the well lifecycle.
Addresses governance and organisational responsibilities for well integrity management.
Provides a framework for managing well integrity risks and maintaining documented assurance processes.
Supports the integration of well design, operational activities and lifecycle management.
Interpret geological information from horizontal and high-angle wells.
Assess the influence of formation dip and structural changes on well trajectory interpretation.
Correlate LWD responses with geological markers and offset well information.
Distinguish measured-depth and true-vertical-depth information during formation evaluation.
Evaluate the position of the wellbore relative to geological target intervals.
Identify potential formation exits and changes in reservoir characteristics.
Integrate geological and petrophysical information to improve horizontal well interpretation.
This module examines directional resistivity measurements and their application to real-time geosteering. It explains how resistivity responses support the identification of formation boundaries and provide information about geological features around the wellbore.
Participants explore the interpretation of directional resistivity data alongside conventional LWD measurements, geological models and drilling information. The module also considers how real-time interpretation supports decisions about trajectory adjustments, formation entry and maintaining the wellbore within the intended reservoir interval.
Provides recommended practices for occupational safety in oil and gas well drilling and servicing operations.
Addresses operational safety considerations associated with drilling activities.
Establishes guidance for safe working practices and hazard management.
Supports the development of appropriate operational controls during drilling and wellsite activities.
Explain the principles and applications of directional resistivity measurements.
Interpret resistivity responses for identifying geological boundaries and formation changes.
Evaluate directional resistivity information alongside conventional LWD measurements.
Explain how real-time geosteering supports well trajectory decisions.
Identify discrepancies between predicted geological conditions and actual drilling observations.
Assess the implications of formation changes for reservoir entry and well placement.
Communicate interpretation results and geosteering recommendations effectively.
This module brings together geological interpretation, petrophysical evaluation, LWD measurements and directional drilling information to examine integrated well placement decisions. It focuses on maintaining the well trajectory within the intended reservoir interval while considering geological variability, drilling constraints and operational objectives.
Participants examine how geosteering teams assess alternative trajectory options and communicate recommendations to drilling and subsurface personnel. The module also addresses the evaluation of well placement performance, documentation of interpretation decisions and the use of drilled well information to improve future geological models and development planning.
Provides recognised requirements and guidance for well integrity in drilling and well operations.
Addresses well integrity principles and barriers throughout drilling and operational activities.
Supports systematic well integrity planning, implementation and verification.
Provides a reference for managing well integrity risks during well construction and intervention activities.
Explain the technical considerations influencing reservoir-targeted well placement.
Integrate geological, petrophysical and directional drilling information into well placement decisions.
Evaluate alternative trajectory recommendations against geological and operational objectives.
Assess the implications of formation changes for reservoir exposure and drilling performance.
Apply a structured approach to real-time geosteering recommendations.
Communicate well placement decisions across multidisciplinary operational teams.
Evaluate drilled well information for improving geological models and future development planning.
Upon successful completion of the Geosteering and Formation Evaluation Training Course, attendees receive a Certificate of Completion from Institute For Oil & Gas Training.
The certificate confirms participation in the programme and successful completion of its training requirements. Attendees are required to meet the minimum attendance requirement of 80 percent of the total course duration to qualify for the Certificate of Completion.
Fees include tuition, course materials and refreshments. Need different dates or a different city? Ask about your preferred date.
The course develops the technical knowledge required to integrate geological interpretation, petrophysical measurements, LWD data and directional drilling information. It focuses on real-time geosteering, horizontal well interpretation, directional resistivity and well placement. Participants learn how these disciplines support informed drilling decisions and effective reservoir targeting.
Geosteering helps drilling teams maintain the well trajectory within the intended geological target. It uses real-time formation evaluation measurements and geological interpretation to identify changes in formation conditions. Accurate geosteering supports reservoir exposure, improves well placement decisions and helps manage geological uncertainty during horizontal drilling.
Yes. The programme examines LWD principles and the applications of common formation evaluation measurements, including gamma ray and resistivity, as well as density and neutron measurements where applicable. It also covers measurement interpretation, data quality, operational limitations and the integration of LWD information into real-time geosteering workflows.
Wellsite geologists, geosteering geologists, petrophysicists, formation evaluation specialists, directional drilling engineers, drilling engineers, LWD specialists and reservoir engineers benefit from the programme. It is also suitable for supervisors, technical team leaders and managers responsible for well planning, subsurface interpretation and drilling performance.
Participants strengthen their ability to interpret geological and LWD information, evaluate directional resistivity responses, correlate formations in horizontal wells and assess well placement decisions. They also develop a better understanding of real-time geosteering workflows, geological uncertainty and multidisciplinary communication during drilling operations. Upon meeting the attendance requirement, they receive a Certificate of Completion from Institute For Oil & Gas Training.
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Next: 16 Nov 2026
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