Which of the following describes a project?

A project is best described as a defined endeavor to achieve unique goals because it has specific objectives and outcomes that differentiate it from ongoing operational tasks or routine activities. Projects are typically temporary, meaning they have a clear beginning and end, and they are initiated to create something new or to implement a change. This characteristic of projects emphasizes their unique nature, as each project is undertaken to fulfill particular aims that are not part of the organization’s regular processes.

The other options describe concepts that do not align with the characteristics of a project. Routine tasks typically involve repetitive steps and are part of everyday operations. Continuous operations refer to ongoing activities without a predetermined conclusion, focusing on maintaining the existing processes rather than achieving specific, unique goals. A variety of unrelated tasks does not encapsulate the cohesive structure and purpose inherent in a project's definition. Thus, "a defined endeavor to achieve unique goals" captures the essence of what constitutes a project effectively.