Ten circles of radius \(r=6\) are equally spaced in a regular pattern as suggested by the diagram. What is the total area of the shaded regions?

Explanation: The problem describes a figure with ten circles of radius \(r=6\). It states that all the smaller shaded regions can be mentally rearranged to fill all the unshaded spaces within one of the circles, essentially forming one completely shaded circle. Area of a circle = \(\pi r^2\). Given \(r = 6\). Area of the shaded regions = Area of one circle = \(\pi (6^2) = 36\pi\).