
Introduction
If you’re doing a PhD or working on your research proposal, you’ve probably heard the term “conceptual framework.”
But what does it mean?
Why is it important?
And how can you create one easily?
In this guide, you’ll learn in simple language:
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- What a conceptual framework is
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- Why it’s important in academic research
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- The difference between conceptual and theoretical frameworks
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- How to create your own framework
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- Examples from real research topics
What Is a Conceptual Framework?
A conceptual framework is a plan or guide for your research.
It explains what you are studying, what factors (variables) you’re looking at, and how they are connected.
Simple definition:
“It’s a diagram or written plan that shows how your research ideas are linked together.”
Why Is It Important?
Your conceptual framework helps you:
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- Stay focused on your topic
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- Decide what to include in your study
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- Show the relationship between concepts
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- Make your thesis or proposal clear to reviewers
It is required by most universities and academic journals.
Conceptual Framework | Theoretical Framework |
Based on your research topicBased on your research topic | Based on existing theories |
Helps you plan what to study | Helps explain why something happens |
Made by you | Taken from books, papers, or models |
Includes variables and their connection | Includes definitions and assumptions |
You can use both in your research. Usually, the conceptual framework comes from the theoretical one.
What to Include in a Conceptual Framework
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- Research problem or question
- Research problem or question
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- Key variables (things you’re studying)
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- Relationships between variables
- Relationships between variables
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- Optional: a diagram or chart
- Optional: a diagram or chart
Explanation (1–2 paragraphs)
Steps to Create a Conceptual Framework
Step 1: Define Your Research Problem
Ask yourself: What am I trying to find out?
Example:
“Why do students struggle with online learning?”
Step 2: Find Key Variables
Look at past research to find related ideas or factors.
Example:
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- Online learning tools
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- Student motivation
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- Performance in exams
Step 3: Classify Your Variables
Identify the types of variables:
Type | Example |
Independent | online Learing Tools |
Dependent | Student Performance |
Mediating | Motivation |
Moderating | Teacher Support |
Step 4: Draw a Diagram
Use arrows and boxes to show how the variables are connected.
This becomes your visual framework.
Example:
nginx
CopyEdit
Online Learning → Motivation → Academic Performance
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Using too many ideas with no connection
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Not explaining your diagram
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Skipping this section in your proposal
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Copying a framework without adapting it to your topi