Install Minecraft Java Edition
Download and install a mod loader like Fabric, Forge, or NeoForge
Launch the Minecraft version that matches the mod loader at least once
Download mods that match your Minecraft version and mod loader
Open the Minecraft folder
Open or create the `mods` folder
Move the mod `.jar` files into the `mods` folder
Launch Minecraft using the mod loader profile
Check that the mods appear and work in-game