The stroke is the usable distance travelled by the plunger from its initial position to the end of travel. As the stroke is increased the force is reduced and vice versa.

6.1. Start of Stroke
This is the position of the plunger before it starts its travel. It is also the position when it returns upon conclusion of the complete cycle.

6.2. End of Stroke
This is the designed final position of the plunger upon conclusion of the work portion of the complete cycle.

6.3. Stroke Work
For the linear solenoid, the stroke work (in Newtons) is the magnetic force over the magnetic stroke.

A solenoid is the correct size if the magnetic force exceeds the opposing force at all times with only a slight amount of excess force to assure long service life.

A solenoid is too small if the magnetic force is less than the opposing force over a certain range.