what's important

1. To define a problem which can be solvable first before you solve the hardest one.  This will save a lot of time and energy and can keep you on the right track!
2. Implement things fast and try to learn and understand why it's better.
3. Read literature and familiar with it. This will save you a lot of time. And you can have more ideas after that. 
4. research is a process for learning and understanding. Never only count on the things you already have. Learn if needed. No need to be fear of something you don't know. 
5. Keep actively communicating with others.