This is not a trick question but it is one that could have BIG legal ramifications if not answered truthfully.

The Notary Public asking you this is not trying to be funny, he/she is asking you to take an oath and that is the Notary's greatest legal power. Answering that question falsely is an act of perjury.

The typical notorial document wording includes, "Subscribed and sworn to me". There are 3 requirments that are manditory in every State:
1) The Notary Public must ask the oath in question form.
2) The oath taker must respond orally and positively.
3) The Notary must determine if the signer understands their moral and legal obligation to answer truthfully.