Know the objective. Whether you are a student, teacher or researcher -- or all of the above -- the main objective in forming a conceptual framework is the same: find and connect relevant information that leads to a desired conclusion. For example, if you're doing research about how innovation improves school education, focus only on information that connects innovation with school improvement.
Own the information. This involves making your conceptual construct into more of a home than just a house. You achieve this by viewing information-gathering as more than a perfunctory process, a series of chores to check off on a list. Rather, make the information meaningful to you on your own terms. Make it worth your time.
Write it out. After thinking about the information you've gathered, what it means and how it relates to your objective, record your thoughts in writing. Writing is thinking, and it aids critical reflection. In this way, you will organize your mind and thoughts, and you will help reveal any unresolved questions so that you can address them intelligently.
Share with others. Collaboration serves as a test of your conceptual framework's integrity. Sharing your information with others will reveal whether your objective is clear and your information is relevant. This "open house" approach also gives you an opportunity to gain valuable feedback from others, which is especially important when working on a research team.
Be flexible. Over time, you may receive new information that adds an important piece to your conceptual framework. For example, in 2003, the United Nations' Food and Agricultural Organization published a conceptual framework about agricultural development and food security. Its purpose, said the publication, was "to propose a flexible, general approach" to addressing the issue and creating a strategy. Like the U.N., you need to be willing to "redecorate" your conceptual home. This may even mean revising previously formed conclusions.