Well if it's all about numbers at any cost, there is a rule that is better than Rule No. 1.
That Rule is that FT-8 Rules compared to CW.
Whether FT8 is "better" than CW is a matter of personal preference. I have no experience with FT8 contesting, so can't compare the two. I've tried FT8 in normal operation, and can only do it for about 15 minutes before I'm bored. Then again, probably being "old school" (61 years as a ham), it just seems to be a computer-talking-to-a-computer mode. Once you double click on a station, the rest is automatic. But I guess there's some expertise in knowing where to place your signal, etc. At least with CW, you have to use your noggin to decode the exchange, and with SSB you have to pick out voices through the crowd, using your ears. To me, more of a challenge. To others, maybe FT8 is more of a challenge.
Again, to each his/her own. Whatever makes you happy, do it. My point was to respond to N4OI's original post that when using low power and compromised HOA antennas, CW will get you more contest QSO's than SSB. FT8 wasn't considered in his post.
73 and stay safe,
Bob K7JQ