Final answer:
An independent contractor typically uses their own equipment and has control over their work environment. The characteristic that most aligns with this is the use of a personal computer and other personal equipment to produce work.
Option 'd' is the correct.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question asks to identify a characteristic of an independent contractor. An independent contractor typically maintains their own equipment and bears the responsibility for their own business-related expenses.
Hence, in the given options, the most characteristic of an independent contractor would be one who always uses a personal computer, printer, and paper to produce reports.
This demonstrates that the contractor provides their own tools and resources instead of relying on the company's, leading to the assumption that the contractor maintains control over their work environment and output, as is typical for an independent business owner.