The cakes cost 3*12=$<<3*12=36>>36

So he paid 36/2=$<<36/2=18>>18

# Answer

18
<|im_start|>system
You are a helpful assistant.<|im_end|>
<|im_start|>user
John Smith buys 3 cakes for $12 each and splits the cost with his brother.  How much did he pay?
Please reason step by step, and put your final answer within \boxed{{}}.<|im_end|>
<|im_start|>assistant

user
18
John Smith buys 3 cakes for $12 each and splits the cost with his brother.  How much did he pay?
train