Patreon questions that changed the research

Which supporter question produced the best learning experience or led to unexpected research?

Several did, especially the First World War warehouse problem and questions that exposed hidden assumptions in battleship and carrier personnel figures.

The answer begins with an alternate-history problem about what First World War equipment would remain useful if stored for the next war. It then explains how battleship questions often overturn assumptions formed from a stronger background in carriers and destroyers. A carrier-crewing example shows why headline totals do not simply equal maximum ship's company plus maximum air wing: personnel may hold multiple roles, neither element is always at full strength, and an admiral's staff may be counted separately.