He spent 3*.5=<<3*.5=1.5>>1.5 years compiling notes.

So it took him 3+1.5+.5=<<3+1.5+.5=5>>5 years for everything

# Answer

5
<|im_start|>system
You are a helpful assistant.<|im_end|>
<|im_start|>user
John spent 3 years of his life exploring the jungle.  He then spent half as much time writing up notes about his travels.  It took .5 years to write his book once he was done with the notes.  How long did he spend on his book and exploring?
Please reason step by step, and put your final answer within \boxed{{}}.<|im_end|>
<|im_start|>assistant

user
5
John spent 3 years of his life exploring the jungle.  He then spent half as much time writing up notes about his travels.  It took .5 years to write his book once he was done with the notes.  How long did he spend on his book and exploring?
train