Andy weighed 156 + 36 = <<156+36=192>>192 pounds after growing taller.

An eighth of his weight is 1/8 x 192 = <<1/8*192=24>>24 pounds.

Over the next 3 months, Andy lost 24 x 3 = <<24*3=72>>72 pounds.

He now weighs 192 - 72 = <<192-72=120>>120 pounds.

Andy weighs 156 - 120 = <<156-120=36>>36 pounds less than at the beginning of the year.

# Answer

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<|im_start|>system
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<|im_start|>user
Andy started out the year weighing 156 pounds. He then grew 3 inches and gained 36 pounds. Andy wasn't happy with his weight and decided to exercise. Over the next 3 months, he lost an eighth of his weight every month. How much less does Andy weigh now than at the beginning of the year?
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<|im_start|>assistant

user
36
Andy started out the year weighing 156 pounds. He then grew 3 inches and gained 36 pounds. Andy wasn't happy with his weight and decided to exercise. Over the next 3 months, he lost an eighth of his weight every month. How much less does Andy weigh now than at the beginning of the year?
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