Tips for best batt life?

I've got a new MacBook and want to avoid whatever mistakes I've made in the past to deplete my battery life long-term. I've read Apple's page on keeping the battery in good shape, but is it best to let the battery FULLY discharge and FULLY charge (top it off) all the time? And is it bad to keep it plugged in while using, even if it's got a full charge already? What about keeping it plugged in when not in use?
Any tips from experienced Mac people (I'm so glad to join your ranks) would be appreciated.
Elise

HuntedMoose wrote:
Meaning that it is not bad for the battery to be charged all the time (when the AC is plugged?)
If you use your battery even for 10 minutes you should charge it when you can. Li-ion Batteries work best with small charges over big ones. Do not use your battery then use it again and again till the battery gets low enough to shut off. I am not talking about where you have no choice. I am saying don't deplete your battery on purpose before you charge.
A charge cycle is a full discharge and full charge. It is best if done in small doses.
+Example. You use 25% of the battery and then recharge. You have used 1/4th of a cycle. Doing this 4 times an you have a full cycle. This is better for the chemistry that using it for 25% and then letting it sit till the next day and using it for the rest of the use then charging it.+
Below is what I like to give new users for battery care. I use my battery in this way and after six months have 14 cycles on this battery. I get between 3 and 4 hours of use with it and have everything turned on.
It is OK to leave your battery hooked to the charger most of the time. Most of the time I only unhook mine from the charger is when I calibrate. Have you calibrated your battery yet? You should calibrate every two months or so to keep the battery fully functioning. If you use your MacBook infrequently, it’s best to re-calibrate the battery at least once a month.
The following links have good information about the MacBook and the care of it's battery.
Apple: Tips for maximizing your Notebook battery charge
Apple MacBook and MacBook Pro: Reduces processor speed when battery is removed while operating from an A/C adaptor
Apple portable computer's battery does not show a full charge in Mac OS X
Look here and here for some good tips about battery care.
Apple MacBook: How to remove or install the battery
Apple: Determining Battery Cycle Count
Apple: Use and cleaning of MagSafe power connector

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