Open a Session · Reflect & Reset · Encourage Collaboration
The Question You Had
Say the question that occurred to you earlier but never made it into the room.
Time2–3 minutes
Group size4+ people
FormatTable groups
MaterialsNone, Optional sticky notes or digital form
What this accomplishes
Participants surface an unasked question at their table, optionally on an anonymous note. Tables identify one question that would help them continue.
- Surface unresolved questions
- Give facilitators useful feedback
Before you begin
Materials
- None
- Optional sticky notes or digital form
Preparation
- Display a visible timer
- Plan to hear no more than two table reports
What to say
“Here is the ask. You will work only with your table, the timer will stay visible, and passing is always fine.”
How to run it
- 1
State the assumption: somewhere in the last hour, a question probably occurred to you.
- 2
Give participants 20 seconds to think or write anonymously.
- 3
Share questions at tables without requiring anyone to claim a written question.
- 4
Ask each table to submit one question the facilitator should address, park, or investigate.
Prompts to use
What still feels unclear?
What did you wonder but not ask?
What question could improve the next segment?
Adapt it to the room
Small group
Use one table and let everyone contribute; skip the room report.
Large group
Run the activity simultaneously at tables of four to six, then hear only two brief reports.
Virtual
Use breakout rooms of four to six, broadcast the prompt and timer, and collect one response in chat when rooms close.
Accessibility & inclusion
- Keep participation seated by default.
- Display and read the prompt aloud.
- Allow anyone to pass, write, or contribute through a tablemate.
Debrief, if useful
Which question needs an answer now, and which belongs in follow-up?
Why it works—and what can go wrong
Why it works
The prompt normalizes unfinished thinking and the table format lets questions gain clarity before they reach the full room.
Watch out for
- Do not demand immediate answers to questions that require checking.
- Provide an anonymous route when status or power may affect who feels safe asking.