What is a written plan of government called?

A written plan of government is referred to as a constitution. This foundational document outlines the structure of government, delineates the powers and responsibilities of different branches, and establishes the rights of the citizens. It serves as the supreme law of the land, guiding the framework within which a government operates and ensuring that the rule of law is upheld.

Charters typically refer to documents granting rights or privileges, often used in the context of corporations or municipal governments, rather than serving as an overarching plan for government structure. Amendments are changes or additions made to an existing constitution, reflecting the need for updates and reforms as society evolves. Bylaws, on the other hand, are rules or laws made by an organization or group to govern its own operations and procedures, but they do not constitute a comprehensive plan for government. Thus, the defining role of a constitution as a formal and comprehensive document justifies its identification as the correct answer.