It took us more than one year to refine the best numerical solution for our first paper, which was finally submitted last month. As I started to write the second paper, I needed to adjust the "best solution." That's when I discovered an even better solution than the one in the submitted manuscript...
What would you do in this case? Leave the first paper as is, and go on to write a short paper to show how one can get a better solution, or revise the first paper using the latest best solution?
For paper count, the answer is obvious. However, I don't think that will be our choice. (None of us, the first three authors, care much about publishing for the sake of publishing.)
I truly enjoyed this new discovery, which seems to present itself. However, I know it's the experience that helps me to see more clearly now than ever... The good thing is my experience has been recognized by some colleagues as well. I will be visiting NOAA/PMEL, NASA/JPL, and UCLA in late September and early October to share these new results.