Ask HN: Was your YC application worthwhile?

I am very far from applying to YC, but it is always interesting to watch the application process play out. I will probably never apply to YC, but I have used the application to help think through my own projects. I have been wondering, for people who were not granted an interview, do you feel better able to move forward on your project because you took the time to apply? What clarifications did you have about your project by completing the application?