Planning my first swim: Hints, Suggestions, Lessons learned

I've had the F3 before my F5x. I swam with the F3, but never used it to swim laps in a pool. I'm rehabbing from some regenerative injection therapy in my heel/plantars, so while I've had the F5x for a few weeks, I've not been able to run with it, nor do any other reasonable cardio.

I know I need to set the pool length.
I dont know how to flip turn well, so I know I need to push off pretty well to get watch to notice.
I know I shouldnt stop mid lap or change stroke mid lap.
Beyond that. not sure what else.

What do you folks recommend to know?
What about if I do some kickboard laps, should I just leave the activity off or paused?

I Dont know the fly. Only free style or breast stroke. I guess I can backstroke, but probably wont do that, I dont see the point in that stroke for me.

thanks in advance for the advice