How to Install Texture Packs (Resource Packs)

Guide Java Bedrock

Quick answer: Java: download the pack .zip and drop it (without unzipping) into the resourcepacks folder via Options > Resource Packs > Open Pack Folder, then move it to the Selected column. Bedrock: open the .mcpack file and it imports itself; activate it in Settings > Global Resources.

What you need

A texture/resource pack: .zip (Java) or .mcpack (Bedrock)
Java: from CurseForge or Modrinth; Bedrock: also the Marketplace
A pack matching your Minecraft version

Step by step

Download a pack from CurseForge, Modrinth or the Marketplace. Java packs are .zip files - do not unzip them.
Java: launch the game and go to Options > Resource Packs > Open Pack Folder. The resourcepacks folder opens.
Copy the .zip into that folder, return to the game and move the pack from the Available column to Selected with the arrow. Click Done - the game reloads with the new textures.
Order matters: packs higher in the Selected list override lower ones. Put your main pack on top.
Bedrock: double-click the .mcpack file (or open it with Minecraft) and it imports automatically. Activate it in Settings > Global Resources, or per world in the world settings.
Marketplace packs on Bedrock install from the Marketplace itself and activate the same way.

Java vs Bedrock

Java calls them resource packs (they can also change sounds and fonts); 'texture pack' is the old name for the same thing. Bedrock uses .mcpack files and Marketplace content.

Versions: Packs are version-sensitive: a pack built for a much older release can show missing or purple-black textures on new blocks. Pack pages list the supported versions.

Frequently asked questions

Do texture packs disable achievements?

No. Resource packs are cosmetic on both editions - achievements stay enabled.

The pack shows in Available but nothing changes?

Move it to the Selected column with the arrow and press Done. If textures look broken, the pack targets a different Minecraft version.