Which of the following is an example of a hard skill?

The choice of technical veterinary procedures as an example of a hard skill is appropriate because hard skills refer to specific, teachable abilities or knowledge sets that are often quantifiable. In the veterinary field, technical procedures might include tasks such as surgical techniques, proficiency in administering vaccinations, performing diagnostic tests, or using medical equipment. These skills are typically acquired through formal education and hands-on practice, making them distinct from soft skills, which are more interpersonal or subjective in nature.

In contrast, communication and organization are considered soft skills. They relate to how one interacts with others or manages tasks, which are important but not quantifiable in the same way that technical procedures are. Similarly, work ethic reflects personal attitudes and behaviors towards work rather than a learned or teachable skill set. Thus, technical veterinary procedures are the clearest example of a hard skill among the options provided.