Concept:
The total surface area (TSA) of a cube of side \(a\) is
\[
\boxed{\text{TSA}=6a^2.}
\]
Step 1: Form the equation.
Given,
\[
6a^2=54.
\]
Step 2: Solve for the side.
Divide both sides by \(6\):
\[
a^2=9.
\]
Taking the positive square root,
\[
a=3\text{ cm}.
\]
Step 3: Verification.
Substitute \(a=3\):
\[
6(3)^2=6\times9=54\text{ cm}^2,
\]
which matches the given surface area.
Step 4: Final conclusion.
Hence, the side of the cube is
\[
\boxed{3\text{ cm}.}
\]