ok.
First, we need to determine what makes us know that we are dreaming. A dream sign or a spontaneous RC because of habit.
What makes us know that the dreamsign is dreamlike? We are aware of it, but lack the memory. So, we activate the memory to remember that this is unnatural. Any other aspect involved? Memory is categorized according to functions. We need to know what functions we need to use to become lucid, how to use them, to what extent they are active in a NLD, and what activates them(or increase the activity).
I think we should talk about every memory separatly.
This would be long, but is a huge step.

Also, the other aspect. Habit. We need to study what a habit is to the brain, how it works, what makes it work. Then, connect it to the first part I mentioned(because a habit is a matter of memory), so we can conclude what technique is best for exploiting habits.

Finally, we can deduce which method(s) is best for using memory, self-awareness and habits are best.
Expectation will be a factor of habits and intention will be a factor of prospective memory.

May we work without biases please( I am not implying that any of you are biased)