What defines the exact instructions for completing a task within a given process?

The term that defines the exact instructions for completing a task within a given process is referred to as a procedure. A procedure typically lays out step-by-step guidance on how to perform specific activities, ensuring consistency and clarity in execution. This is essential in various fields, including technology and business, as it promotes efficiency and uniformity among team members.

While other options like protocol, policy, and standard operating procedure may sound similar and have related meanings, they serve different purposes. A protocol usually outlines rules for interactions or communications, a policy sets overarching principles or guidelines for decision-making, and a standard operating procedure is often a more formal version of a procedure, sometimes focusing on broader practices rather than detailed instructions for individual tasks. In this context, the term "procedure" is the most accurate descriptor for the exact instructions needed to complete a task within a process.