[
  "Find the cube's side length: SA = 6a^2 = 486, so a = 9 cm. Volume = 729 cubic cm.",
  "The hole goes all the way through: 5 cm x 3 cm cross-section x 9 cm depth = 135 cubic cm removed.",
  "Subtract: 729 - 135 = 594 cubic cm remaining."
]