1) The conjugate beam method uses mathematical analogies between slope-deflection equations of actual beams and load-shear-moment equations of imaginary conjugate beams. 2) The method establishes mathematical equivalence between the behavior of actual beams and their conjugate beams, allowing values like shear (V) and moment (M) to be obtained for actual beams using deflections (w) of corresponding conjugate beams. 3) Conjugate beams are imaginary beams used for mathematical convenience without consideration of their physical stability; their deflections allow determining shear and moment in actual beams using simple equations.