Accurately note your time. Next, add the number of strokes to your time. For example, if you take 50 strokes and swim 45 seconds for the lap, your lap score is 95. Aim to swim a lap score of 94 on the second lap, which means you need to either swim a little faster, or stroke a little longer. Continue the process 6 times.
Fewer strokes is good.
Faster speed is great. Fewer strokes and faster speed is best. Work on keeping strokes long and strong at training. When doing skills work like drills, aim for technical perfection, then aim for technical perfection with the minimum number of strokes, and finally, aim for technical perfection with a minimum number of strokes at maximum speed. Develop real speed by thinking about swimming fast rather than trying too hard and increasing effort during your speed.