Flying FF is a technique.

So is using pitch mode when you climb thru 10k to transition to climb speed.

Climbing in speed mode or flight level change mode works great. I always laughed at pilots that would quit flying the speed/flight level change mode and go to vertical speed mode "because we're supposed to be flying at least 500 feet per minute, or we have to report this to atc."

If they just waited a few more seconds (while in speed mode) the 490 fpm climb rate would go back up to 700 or so, and then maybe back down to 490...and then back up to 700....

As for flying with the fd and ap:

You don't need to, nor do you impress me by hand flying from 1,000 feet up to cruise. You should give the plane to the automation and look outside for ga aircraft that are topping the class b airspace.

If you want to impress, wait till you're in imc and disconnect on base leg...