Music to Get You Through Study Sessions

Do you find it really hard to study in silence? You certainly aren’t alone! 

There is plenty of information out there that says studying in silence is beneficial to your concentration, but there are other people that find having music playing in the background has several benefits. 

Let’s take a look at those benefits, and how studying with music in the background may just work for you. 

Enhanced Focus and Concentration:

Have you ever found yourself drifting off while studying, unable to maintain focus on the task at hand? Music can act as a powerful tool to combat distractions. By providing a consistent auditory backdrop, music helps drown out external noise and keeps your mind centred on the material you’re studying.

Mood Elevation and Stress Reduction:

Certain types of music, such as classical or ambient instrumental pieces, have been shown to induce relaxation and reduce stress levels. When you’re feeling overwhelmed by the demands of studying, turning on some calming music can help alleviate tension and create a more conducive environment for learning.

Memory Enhancement:

Music has a unique way of stimulating the brain and enhancing memory retention. Research suggests that listening to music can activate various regions of the brain associated with memory, which can improve your ability to recall information later on. So, next time you’re trying to memorise key concepts, consider queuing up some background tunes to give your memory a boost.

Increased Productivity:

Ever notice how time seems to fly by when you’re engrossed in a particularly catchy song? Music has the power to elevate your mood and energise you, making tedious study sessions feel more enjoyable and productive. By creating a positive and stimulating atmosphere, music can help you stay motivated and maintain momentum throughout your study sessions.

Creative Stimulation:

For many students, music serves as a source of inspiration and creative expression. Whether you’re writing an essay, working on a creative project, or brainstorming ideas, the right soundtrack can fuel your imagination and enhance your problem-solving skills. Experiment with different genres and see how they influence your creativity and productivity.

Personalised Learning Experience:

One of the greatest benefits of studying with music is the ability to tailor your listening preferences to your individual tastes and learning style. Whether you prefer upbeat pop songs, soothing acoustic melodies, or ambient electronic sounds, there’s a genre of music out there to suit your mood and preferences. By curating your own study playlist, you can create a personalised learning experience that resonates with you on a deeper level.

While studying with music can offer a myriad of benefits, it’s important to recognise that not all types of music are created equal.  According to Steven Smith, a cognitive neuroscientist from the Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences at Texas A&M University, the best music to listen to while you study is something that doesn’t have words, or if it has words, in a language you are unable to understand, otherwise it may distract you from what you are trying to study.  

Additionally, you should be mindful of the volume level and tempo of the music you choose, as excessively loud or fast-paced music may end up being more distracting than helpful.

The Best Music to Listen To While Studying

When it comes down to it, the best music to listen to while studying ultimately depends on individual preferences and how different types of music affect your concentration and productivity. 

However, several genres and styles are commonly recommended for studying due to their calming and non-intrusive nature. Here are some suggestions:

1. Classical Music: Classical music, particularly compositions by Mozart, Beethoven, and Bach, is often cited as an excellent choice for studying. The intricate melodies and soothing rhythms can help create a tranquil environment conducive to focus and concentration.
2. Ambient and Instrumental Music: Ambient music can provide a gentle backdrop for studying without being too distracting. Similarly, instrumental music, like jazz, acoustic, and cinematic scores, can enhance concentration without the distraction of lyrics.
3. Nature Sounds and White Noise: For some people, nature sounds such as rainfall, ocean waves, or chirping birds can promote relaxation and improve focus. White noise, such as the sound of a fan or gentle static, can also help mask background distractions and create a consistent auditory environment. White noise is perfect when studying in a noisy environment like a cafe or even the university library.
4. Lo-Fi and Chillhop: The rise of lo-fi hip-hop and chillhop music has made them popular choices for studying and relaxation. Characterised by their laid-back beats, jazzy samples, and ambient textures, these genres provide a mellow atmosphere perfect for long study sessions.
5. Film and Video Game Soundtracks: Soundtracks from movies, TV shows, and video games often feature instrumental compositions designed to enhance mood and atmosphere. Many students find these soundtracks effective for studying because they don’t have distracting lyrics.

Ultimately, the best music for studying is whatever helps you feel focused, relaxed, and motivated. Experiment with different genres and styles to find what works best for you, and don’t be afraid to create your own study playlist tailored to your individual preferences and needs. 

Remember to keep the volume at a moderate level to avoid overpowering your concentration, and happy studying!

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