Cognitive cost refers to the mental effort required to process information, make decisions, or solve problems. When tasks demand more attention or concentration, they increase cognitive cost, which can lead to fatigue and reduced performance. This concept is important in fields like psychology and education, where understanding how people think can improve learning and productivity. Factors that contribute to cognitive cost include complexity, distractions, and the amount of information presented. For example, when faced with multiple choices, such as in a decision-making scenario, individuals may experience higher cognitive costs, making it harder to arrive at a conclusion. Reducing cognitive load can enhance efficiency and clarity in tasks.