How can the U.S. Constitution be modified?

The U.S. Constitution can be modified specifically through the process of amending it. An amendment formally changes or adds to the Constitution, which is outlined in Article V of the document. This process requires significant consensus, reflecting the importance and permanence of constitutional changes. To propose an amendment, either two-thirds of both houses of Congress must agree, or two-thirds of the states can call for a constitutional convention. Following proposal, the amendment must be ratified by three-fourths of the state legislatures or state conventions.

In comparison, the other methods listed do not serve as avenues for modifying the Constitution. Executive orders are directives issued by the President that manage the operations of the federal government but do not alter the Constitution itself. Judicial review refers to the ability of the courts to interpret the Constitution and assess the legality of laws or governmental actions but does not modify the text of the Constitution. State legislation falls under state governance and cannot change the federal Constitution, demonstrating the distinct roles of federal and state powers in the legal framework. Therefore, the amendment process is the sole method designated for making constitutional modifications.