Final answer:
Citizens can most effectively influence government through voting, supporting political parties that align with their goals, and directly engaging with representatives and policy-making through letters, donations, campaigning, and possibly running for public office.
Step-by-step explanation:
Regular citizens can influence government most effectively by being engaged in the political process. This engagement can include voting in local, state, and national elections, which is a fundamental way of making one's voice heard. Voting influences not only who represents the people in office but also guides the decisions they make once they are in those positions. Additionally, citizens can influence policy by writing letters or sending emails to elected representatives, as this is a direct way of communicating one's positions and concerns. Another impactful method is by supporting the political party that aligns with their goals for the government. Through donations, campaigning, and volunteering, citizens can aid their preferred party and influence its success in elections. Moreover, joining or starting an interest group, and even running for public office allows for a more hands-on approach to influencing government. These actions can carry significant weight in shaping public policy and societal norms.