1. **Stating the problem:** Calculate the surface area of a prism with a given base. 2. **Formula:** The surface area $S$ of a prism is given by: $$S = 2B + Ph$$ where $B$ is the area of the base, $P$ is the perimeter of the base, and $h$ is the height of the prism. 3. **Explanation:** The formula accounts for the two bases (top and bottom) and the lateral faces which form a rectangle around the prism. 4. **Intermediate work:** Suppose the base area $B$ and perimeter $P$ are known, and the height $h$ is given. 5. **Example:** If $B = 20$, $P = 18$, and $h = 10$, then $$S = 2 \times 20 + 18 \times 10 = 40 + 180 = 220$$ 6. **Conclusion:** The surface area of the prism is $220$ square units. This method applies to any prism once the base area, base perimeter, and height are known.