What kind of work does a profession typically involve according to Webster's definition?

A profession, as defined by standard sources such as Webster's dictionary, typically involves a primary focus on mental work rather than manual labor. This distinction is key because it highlights the intellectual and cognitive requirements associated with professional occupations. Professions necessitate specialized knowledge, skill sets, and training that are often formalized through education and certification processes.

In this context, while manual and mechanical work may be necessary in various jobs, professions like medicine, law, engineering, and academia predominantly require critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities. This aligns with the characteristics of a profession that emphasize expertise and a systematic approach to complex tasks, thereby differentiating it from roles that may primarily focus on manual tasks or other forms of labor.

In contrast, options that emphasize teamwork or temporary projects do not embody the essence of a profession. Many occupations may involve teamwork, and projects can indeed be temporary across various job types, but these aspects alone do not define the professional nature of a job. Rather, it is the focus on mental engagement and specialized knowledge that solidifies the basis of a profession according to the definition.