1. **Stating the problem:** We have a shape composed of 9 connected 1 cm by 1 cm squares arranged in a step-like pattern on a grid. We want to find the area of this shape. 2. **Formula used:** The area of a shape composed of unit squares is the number of squares times the area of each square. 3. **Important rule:** Each square has an area of $1 \text{ cm} \times 1 \text{ cm} = 1 \text{ cm}^2$. 4. **Intermediate work:** Since the shape covers 9 squares, the total area is: $$\text{Area} = 9 \times 1 = 9 \text{ cm}^2$$ 5. **Explanation:** Because each square is 1 cm by 1 cm, counting the number of squares directly gives the area in square centimeters. **Final answer:** The area of the shape is $9 \text{ cm}^2$.