In mental spaces theory, the process whereby knowledge structures such as idealised cognitive models or semantic frames are recruited in order to provide a mental space with internal structure.

Schema induction is prompted for by linguistic expressions. For instance, in the following utterance: In the picture the witch is riding the unicorn, the expression is riding prompts for a riding frame. This knowledge structure provides roles for rider and ridee which can be mapped onto the witch and the unicorn respectively, thereby providing the mental space with internal structure.