I've only managed laptop use in First Class. I'm tall enough that using my iPad is a dicey proposition, since I either have to hold it at eye level the whole flight and have to switch arms every little while, or look really far down and get a sore neck.

Sorry about reclining; it's the only way I can get to a position where my knees aren't pressing against the seat in front the whole flight. If it makes you feel better, I always look first, and recline really slowly.