Identify the needed dimensions: radius (r) and height (h)
Use the total surface area formula: (SA = 2pi r^2 + 2pi r h)
If you need only the curved (lateral) surface area: (LSA = 2pi r h)
If you need only the area of both bases: (2pi r^2)
Substitute (r) and (h) into the correct formula
Use (pi approx 3.14159) if needed
Evaluate and simplify to get the surface area in square units