There are several different types of mining techniques used to extract minerals and other resources from the earth. Some of the most common methods include surface mining, underground mining, placer mining, mountaintop removal mining, and dredging.

Surface mining is used to extract minerals and materials that are located close to the surface of the earth, such as coal, iron ore, and copper. Underground mining is used to extract materials that are buried deep beneath the earth's surface, such as gold and diamonds. Placer mining involves extracting minerals from stream beds and other shallow water sources. Mountaintop removal mining is used to extract coal from the tops of mountains, while dredging is used to extract minerals and materials from riverbeds and other water sources. The choice of mining technique depends on a variety of factors, including the type of mineral being extracted, the location of the deposit, and the environmental impacts of the mining process.