I received the following question via email, and I'm answering here so others can benefit from the answer:

Does my what if questions have to start with "what if" or is it just Q And A without answering

The purpose of this exercise is to brainstorm story ideas. Ultimately, as long as you're brainstorming story ideas for at least 15 minutes, there's no wrong way to do this exercise.

The "what if" questions are one way to generate story ideas. What if that person at the bus stop has secret superpowers? What if your crush liked you back, but turned out to be the grandchild of a crime lord? Doesn't it sound like there could be novel- worthy stories in those scenarios?

If you can think of a series of questions and answers that helps you similarly brainstorm story ideas, have at it, and definitely share with the rest of us so we can try it, too.

Cheers,
Michelle