I have just started my 2nd year as a PhD student. The problem is that even though I have passed an upgrade from MPhil->PhD status for my topic, I am still unclear about how I can do this e.g. what experiments to design etc. The work that I had originally planned was criticised in the upgrade- with little constructive advice given. I also feel embarrassed to voice my concerns that I'm feeling 'lost' in my research,as I am scared it will make me look like I haven't been working hard enough. Any suggestions? Thanks

No suggestion but more like reassurance. I have just started PhD and am feeling lost. I know the general area of my phd but have not yet devised a research question. will that come in time when i have become more familiar with the subject area? ie. will find a question to answer?

I am currently drafting my Proposal. Initially I am lost, but finally I found a fascinating topic for my research.I have prepared to feeling "Lost" soon, but this is common.

This is probably not what you wish to hear, but I'm at the end of my 2nd year and feeling lost. I too have the same feeling of not wanting to speak up because of a fear of looking like I don't do enough.

Hi Guys, Thanks for your replies and reassurance. I think I am panicking because even after 12 months of research, I cannot quite imagine what a focused final thesis would eventually look like - and do not wish to waste my time now by reading info which will serve me no purpose. I guess these are common worries for most research students.

I've started my 2nd year and still have no defined project. I have yet to upgrade. My supervisor wants me to do experiments that have already been published. Since they've been published, there's really no reason for me to do them. Whenever I suggest something innovative, he's not keen cos it's not "safe". My passion for science has waned. Apparently, this will pass and that most people generate data in their third/final year. Just try to enjoy yourself. Do activities to remind yourself of the important things in life like family, friends, etc...