The answer is A: the number of steps to complete a task.
Explanation for each option:
A. The number of steps to complete a task - This is NOT influenced by the audience. The number of steps required to complete a task in a technical manual is determined by the task itself, not by the audience. The steps are dictated by the process or procedure being described.
B. How complex the writing is - This should be influenced by the audience. The complexity of the writing should match the audience's level of expertise and familiarity with the subject matter. For example, a manual for experts in a field might use more technical language than one intended for beginners.
C. How formal the language is - This should be influenced by the audience. The formality of the language can vary depending on the audience. A manual for a professional setting might use more formal language, while one for a general audience might be more casual.
D. What language the manual is in - This should be influenced by the audience. The language of the manual should be the one that the intended audience understands. If the audience is primarily Spanish-speaking, for example, the manual should be in Spanish.
"I don't know" is not a valid option in this context as it does not provide a specific answer.