The best thing to do is the thing that works for YOU.
Yes, reimplementing existing papers is great. Talking to others in the community for ideas is great if you can.
I don’t think there is a right way for everyone. So if you are already making learning a lot through re-implementing or something else then just ignore most of my advice. Also, if my advice isn’t helpful for you then try one of the other ideas.
The best thing to do is the thing that works for YOU.
Yes, reimplementing existing papers is great. Talking to others in the community for ideas is great if you can.
I don’t think there is a right way for everyone. So if you are already making learning a lot through re-implementing or something else then just ignore most of my advice. Also, if my advice isn’t helpful for you then try one of the other ideas.