Does an iPad battery need discharging?

What is the best way to manage an iPad battery, a reader asks.

Apple iPad
Apple's new iPad features an improved screen, faster processor and better camera.

From the point of view of battery life, is it better to charge my iPad continuously or wait until it is virtually discharged.
Malcolm Spicer, by email

Apple suggests that you should put your iPad through a complete charge/discharge cycle at least once a month. In other words, charge it fully then allow it to run down to around 10 to 15 percent, before recharging and this also helps to recalibrate the device’s fuel gauge. By the way, this is good advice for any device powered by Lithium Ion/Polymer batteries. If possible charge your iPad in a cool environment and it will receive a slightly deeper charge and don’t forget to remove the case or cover to stop it getting too hot. Avoid leaving it on charge overnight; a full charge should take around 4 hours on the supplied charger (iPad 3 takes a little longer). Do not allow the battery to fully discharge, or leave it in an uncharged state, as this will definitely reduce its lifespan. Apple claims the iPad battery should be good for around 1000 charge cycles, before the capacity falls to below 80 percent, at which point you will be aware of reduced running times. This sounds tad optimistic and in practice it is likely to start showing signs of old age after around 500 or so cycles. Either way I wouldn’t worry too much, replacement batteries are readily available but in any case by the time it happens you’ll probably be too busy playing with your shiny new iPad 5 or 6…