Well I think you've identified a task that should be yours. If the writing of the code itself is going to help you, then don't let AI take that help from you be

Well I think you've identified a task that should be yours. If the writing of the code itself is going to help you, then don't let AI take that help from you because of a vague need for "productivity". We all need to take time to make ourselves better at our craft, and at some point AI can't do that for you. But I do think it could help, for example by showing you a better pattern or language or library feature after you get stuck or finish a first draft. That's not cheating that's asking a friend.