Cogent describes an argument that is so logically tight and well-marshalled that it compels assent. It is one of the highest forms of praise an examiner or jurist can offer a piece of reasoning — stronger than ‘valid’, softer than ‘irrefutable’.
In UPSC Mains and Essay writing, a cogent argument is one where premises connect cleanly to conclusion without rhetorical filler. Aspirants should aim for cogency, not verbosity. The word also appears frequently in Supreme Court judgements — ‘no cogent evidence’, ‘cogent reasons must be recorded’ — making it indispensable for GS2 governance answers.
