This is years 1-5 in STEM grad school, to a T. In fact, I'd say this is most 'thought-centric' work in general. When it does come together, it feels like it all falls into place at the last minute, like a practiced artist's drawing. But the YEARS of practice it takes to be able to make that swoop of the brush seem effortless are anything but.

If you have an advisor/boss that will suffer those years, thank them, even if they are a total jerk. Most won't suffer it at all.