What is described as the effort people put into tasks for which they are compensated?

The correct answer is labor or human resources, as it directly refers to the physical or mental effort that individuals contribute to the production of goods and services in exchange for compensation, such as wages or salaries. Labor is a fundamental factor of production in economics, representing the workforce that actively engages in work-related tasks.

When discussing labor or human resources, it's essential to recognize that this term encompasses not only the workers themselves but also the various skills and abilities they bring to their jobs. This includes everything from manual labor to highly skilled professions, reflecting the diverse nature of efforts put forth in the economy.

In contrast, capital resources refer to physical assets like machinery and buildings, which aid production but do not involve direct human effort. Human capital relates to the skills, knowledge, and experience individuals possess, which enhance their productivity but is a broader concept than just the labor they provide. Finally, entrepreneurship involves the risk-taking and innovation necessary to start and manage a business, representing a different aspect of economic activity than the direct labor provided by workers.