There're a few different methods to try and consciously induce a lucid dream. One method is to try your best to remember dreams. Some keep a dream journal, writing whatever one can recollect. This will help you to get in touch with your subconscious. Another method is to set your alarm clock a few hours before you actually have to get up. While awake in a relaxed state, try and consciously affirm that you will remember, and have control of your dream. Then drift back off. This next one works great, but may wake you up your first few attempts. You'll be in the middle of a dream, just going on autopilot. The trick is to try and look for things that you know couldn't or wouldn't happen in a waking state. Typically things that defy nature. That's when it'll click that you're actually dreaming (just try not to think about waking up) and you will be off to have lucid encounters.