* Cession: This is the most common way for a state to be divided. In a cession, one state gives up all or part of its territory to another state. This can be done through a treaty or other agreement between the two states.
* Congressional action: Congress can also divide a state into two or more states. This is usually done when a state's population has grown too large for it to be effectively governed as a single unit.
* Constitutional convention: A constitutional convention can also divide a state into two or more states. This is the most difficult way to divide a state, as it requires the approval of two-thirds of the members of both houses of Congress, as well as the approval of three-fourths of the state legislatures.
In addition to these three methods, there are also a few other ways that a state can be divided. For example, a state can be divided through a natural disaster, such as an earthquake or a flood. A state can also be divided through a military conquest.
Regardless of how a state is divided, the process is usually a long and difficult one. It can take many years, even decades, for a state to be finally divided into two or more states.