<p>I'm an engineering major. It seems that my hands on skills are behind those of my peers (most of which are noticeably older than me). If i'm not mistaken, I think this comes with age. But, in most classes I usually get the highest grades on tests (not trying to sound cocky). </p>
<p>Does being bad at hands on stuff mean I'm going to be bad at research?</p>
<p>I know I can definitely get better.</p>
<p>I don’t really know what you’re trying to ask. Of course, the answer is no. Are you already in grad school?</p>
<p>Also, what kind of research? Field research? Surveys and studies? Laboratory bench work? Computational sciences? Even in the engineering sciences, not all research requires “hands on” stuff. </p>
<p>I apologize for sounding cranky, but this is silly question without more information on what engineering discipline you’re studying. </p>
<p>Also, research isn’t just the doing. 80% of research is the thinking and planning part. Anyone can do benchwork or be a lab tech with proper training.</p>
<p>Not at all. As newmitgrad said, research isn’t all about the technical skills. From what I understand, having good technique will help in your experiments, but that’s something that will come with time and experience. As long as you have the mind to do research and knowledge of the protocols and techniques you need to do to accomplish that, you’re set. Some people have “god hands”, and some need a little more practice to get there.</p>