What I learned publishing a paper (ramjanarthan.com)

In a personal reflection, a Master's student from the University of Edinburgh shared their journey from enrolling in an AI program in 2024 to publishing their first research paper in April 2026, which focused on how AI models learn languages. The paper, titled "When transformers learn 'impossible' languages, what do they learn?" was awarded the Best Paper Award at the CoNLL 2026 conference. The student emphasizes the importance of belief, perseverance, and actionable strategies as critical components in navigating the challenging landscape of academic research. This narrative illustrates the significance of personal growth and determination in the AI/ML community, particularly for newcomers. By detailing each milestone—from writing a literature review and securing a dissertation project to collaborating with experienced researchers—this story highlights the iterative nature of research and the importance of mentorship in developing innovative ideas. The student’s insights on managing expectations, fostering momentum through small daily goals, and leveraging personal advantages offer valuable lessons for aspiring researchers aiming to make meaningful contributions to the field.