First multiply the number of spots on the left side by 3: 16 spots * 3 = <<16*3=48>>48 spots

Then add 7 to find the number of spots on the right side: 48 spots + 7 spots = <<48+7=55>>55 spots

Then add the number of spots on each side to find the total number of spots: 55 spots + 16 spots = <<55+16=71>>71 spots

# Answer

71
<|im_start|>system
You are a helpful assistant.<|im_end|>
<|im_start|>user
Ruth is counting the number of spots on her cow. The cow has 16 spots on its left side and three times that number plus 7 on its right side. How many spots does it have total?
Please reason step by step, and put your final answer within \boxed{{}}.<|im_end|>
<|im_start|>assistant

user
71
Ruth is counting the number of spots on her cow. The cow has 16 spots on its left side and three times that number plus 7 on its right side. How many spots does it have total?
train