Proof-heavy papers can take days or weeks to understand. It takes multiple reads, working through the math on scrap paper, and frequently discussing proofs with colleagues.
My process is generally to read through the paper a couple of times and then start tackling the proofs (if there are any). In general, I find it best to start with a very high level understanding and slowly descend into a greater detailed understanding.
My process is generally to read through the paper a couple of times and then start tackling the proofs (if there are any). In general, I find it best to start with a very high level understanding and slowly descend into a greater detailed understanding.