Download a shader pack (e.g., from CurseForge, Modrinth, or official shader sites)
Install a compatible shader loader/mod (most commonly OptiFine for Java, or Iris/Fabric for Fabric)
Ensure you have matching versions (Minecraft version, mod loader, shader pack version)
Place the shader pack file into the correct folder:
If it’s a .zip or .rar: put it in `/.minecraft/shaderpacks/`
Start Minecraft (Java)
Open the shader settings:
With OptiFine: `Options → Video Settings → Shaders → Select Shader Pack → Done`
With Iris: `Options → Video Settings → Shader Packs → Select Shader Pack`
Apply the shader and restart the game if prompted
Adjust shader options (quality, shadows, render distance, lighting) in the shader settings menu
If shaders don’t load:
Confirm the shader pack is in `shaderpacks`
Match Minecraft/mod/shader versions
Try a different shader pack or update the shader loader/mod
Verify Java version and GPU drivers are up to date