Different strokes for different folks.
While everybody works to attain the perfect stroke and work on building strength, speed, and stamina, not every stroke is the same. Slightly different mechanics for some work better than those that do for others.
Finding a paddle that best works your stroke correctly, and basically doesn’t allow you to cheat, all the while building strength, speed, and stamina, is going to be the correct paddle for you. Starting smaller is good advice.
As you can see there are many sizes and shapes and even purposes for certain paddles. Be sure that you are ready for this step in training. Having the most toys on the edge of the pool doesn’t make you the faster swimmer. Having the correct toys on the side of the pool is what will help get you there.
I personally use the ErgoFlex paddles. I’ve been swimming my whole life and tried a lot of paddles. I like this paddle for the surface area and flexible construction that allows the paddle to flex and retain feel for the water while maintaining a strong pull and correct stroke mechanics. They really helped me gain back strength quickly in my shoulder after breaking my collar bone last year.
Try some different paddles, and ease into it.
Jake