The conceptual framework is alluded to in most serious texts on research, described in some and fully explained in few. However, examiners of doctoral theses devote considerable attention to exploring its function within social science doctoral vivas. A literature survey explores how the conceptual framework is itself conceptualised and explained. Drawing upon experience of conducting programmes for doctoral candidates and supervisors, field-tested models illustrate how conceptual frameworks may be devised and used. (Contains 3 figures and 4 tables.)