To determine the total number of cubes in the given structure, we can break it down by layers and count the cubes on each layer.

The structure appears to be a stepped pyramid with several layers of cubes:

1. Bottom layer (4x4): This layer has 4 rows and 4 columns, which totals to $4 \times 4 = 16$ cubes.
2. Second layer (3x3): This layer has 3 rows and 3 columns, which totals to $3 \times 3 = 9$ cubes.
3. Third layer (2x2): This layer has 2 rows and 2 columns, which totals to $2 \times 2 = 4$ cubes.
4. Top layer (1x1): The top layer has 1 cube.

Now, add up the cubes from each layer: $16 + 9 + 4 + 1 = 30$ So, the total number of cubes in the structure is 30.

Would you like a more detailed breakdown, or do you have any other questions?

Here are 5 related questions:

1. How would the total number of cubes change if the structure had an additional layer?
2. What is the formula to determine the number of cubes in such a stepped pyramid with 'n' layers?
3. How many cubes are visible from the front view of the structure?
4. How many cubes are hidden from view if you only look at the structure from one side?
5. If you removed the top two layers, how many cubes would remain?

Tip: For such pyramid-like structures, it's useful to break down the problem by layers and sum up the cubes accordingly.