Which of the following best defines a constitution?

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks for the option that best defines a constitution. It should be a broad, complete definition, not one that covers only one part of what a constitution does.

Step 2: The concept A constitution is the fundamental set of rules, principles and laws by which a state is governed. It:

• Establishes the organs of government (executive, legislature, judiciary)
• Defines their powers and limits
• Usually protects citizens' rights
• Can be written (e.g. Nigeria, USA) or unwritten (e.g. Britain, which relies on conventions, statutes and common law)

Step 3: Evaluate each option

• A. A body of rules written or unwritten which guides the operation of a government. This is correct. It covers both written and unwritten constitutions and captures the main purpose: guiding how government operates.
• B. A document providing for the rights of citizens. This is too narrow. Rights are only one part of a constitution (the Bill of Rights or fundamental rights chapter).
• C. A document which sets out the laws governing the working of the government. This is close, but it says "document," which wrongly excludes unwritten constitutions like Britain's. It is therefore less complete than A.
• D. A legal document to guide judges. This is wrong. A constitution guides the whole government and citizens, not only judges.
• E. The rules guiding parliamentary procedures. This describes the standing orders of a legislature, not a constitution.

Step 4: Answer Option A is the best definition because it is the only one that recognises that constitutions can be written or unwritten, and it states the central function of a constitution: guiding the operation of government.

Tip: In "best definition" questions, pick the option that is broadest and accurate. Words like "document" can be a trap, because a constitution is not always a single written document. Remember Britain as the classic unwritten example.