Install Minecraft Java Edition
Install the correct mod loader, such as Forge or Fabric
Download mods that match your Minecraft version and mod loader
Open the Minecraft launcher and run the mod loader profile once
Locate the Minecraft 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
Remove any incompatible mods if Minecraft crashes
Keep mods, loader, and Minecraft version matched exactly