I have used a compact size tri-fold kneeboard for 20+ yrs flying helos. Even though we now have the iPads for all of our instrument plates I've found that I still need the need board for writing down times and any other info that is passed and needed. It's a lot easier than trying to use the scratch pad feature in the iPad. I keep it on my right leg and when I'm done writing I simply slide it to he right side of my leg and its out of the way for controlling the cyclic.