What is the purpose of a premise in a sound argument?

A premise serves as the foundational statement or proposition in an argument, specifically providing the necessary evidence or reasoning that supports the conclusion. In a sound argument, premises are critical because they lay the groundwork that leads logically to the conclusion being drawn. When premises are true and well-structured, they bolster the argument's credibility and persuasiveness, allowing the audience to understand how the conclusion is derived from them. Thus, their role is essential in establishing a logical flow and ensuring that the argument is robust and convincing.