Which type of variable is stored data that can only be used within a small scope of a project?

A local variable is designed to store data that is only accessible within a specific scope, typically within the function or block of code where it is created. This means that once the execution of that function or block is complete, the local variable ceases to exist, and its data cannot be accessed elsewhere in the project. Local variables help to manage memory efficiently and avoid conflicts with variable names in other parts of the code, promoting better organization and encapsulation within programming.

In contrast, global variables are accessible from any part of the program, static variables retain their value between function calls but are still limited in scope, and instance variables belong to a specific instance of a class, making them available within the context of an object but potentially throughout the lifetime of that object. These differences highlight the unique function of a local variable in managing scope and data accessibility.