Frameworks. theoretical framework, it maintains a distinct purpose. This is a simple overview of the basic differences Theoretical Framework. A conceptual framework is the researcher’s idea on how the research problem will have to be explored. Theoretical & conceptual frameworks The terms theoretical framework and conceptual framework are often used interchangeably to mean the same thing. When working on coursework or dissertation research, … The theoretical and conceptual framework explains the path of a research and grounds it firmly in theoretical constructs. What is the difference between the conceptual and the theoretical framework? They can’t be used interchangeably and you can’t have both within your study. Conceptual Framework vs Theoretical Framework. Although they are both used to understand a research problem and guide the development, collection, and analysis of research, it's important to understand the difference between the two. Not every study is based on a theory or model, but every study has a framework. A conceptual framework is used to clarify concepts, organize ideas, and identify relationships with which to frame a study. Conceptual Framework ABSTRACT This is an opinion piece on the subject of whether or not ‘theoretical’ and ‘conceptual’ frameworks are conceptual synonyms, or they refer to different constructs. The conceptual framework is almost always confused with the theoretical framework of the study. Researchers need to simply adopt one of the terms and adhere to that particular term throughout their work. This is founded on the theoretical framework, which lies on a much broader scale of resolution. Concepts are logically developed and organized to support an overall framework and often exhibited graphically within dissertation research. These are actually similar terms with little difference between them. Conceptual frameworks also help auditors to resolve financial reporting problems even when there are no standards for accounting. A framework is the conceptual underpinning of a study. Conceptual frameworks guide those who set standards in accounting during the establishment and review of financial reporting regulations. ABSTRACT A number of researchers either in scientific, social or academic researchers have found it difficult to differentiate between the theoretical and conceptual framework and their importance.