<p>“Seriously, using a laptop to take notes in math class sounds and is ridiculous.”</p>
<p>I do programs for process automation (programmable logic controllers, distributed control systems, some embedded C++), yet still write out the equations and initial flow charts on a low-tech notepad. Guess it’s burnt in to the thought process.</p>
<p>Just remember, when doing derivations, consider which is easier to provide a “trail of breadcrumbs” in case you need to work your way back.</p>
<p>If anyone here winds up working in technical fields subject to stringent audits (and nuclear is one), you may still be required to show a notebook documenting calculations (I got a spot inspection visit with a DOE/NRC “years” ago).</p>