Which of the following describes the primary function of the Constitution?

The primary function of the Constitution is to set up the government, define its functions, and protect the rights of individuals. This foundational document establishes the framework for the federal government, detailing the separation of powers among the legislative, executive, and judicial branches, as well as the system of checks and balances designed to prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful.

Furthermore, the Constitution guarantees fundamental rights and freedoms to the citizens, particularly through the Bill of Rights, which outlines specific protections against government overreach. This dual role of structuring government operations while safeguarding individual liberties has been crucial in the development of democratic governance in the United States.

On the other hand, the other choices reflect aspects that do not capture the overarching purpose of the Constitution. While it does relate to state governance and laws, its primary focus is not confined to merely establishing laws for the states or providing guidelines for them. Additionally, taxation policies are addressed within the Constitution, but they are not its primary function; rather, they are part of the broader framework of governmental powers and responsibilities outlined in the text.