For many people, listening to music is an essential part of multitasking. Whether they are listening to instrumental pieces or vocal compositions, the music goes hand in hand with their curriculum. So the question is: Is it really helpful to listen to music while studying?

This is a question that has been asked for many purposes since music became mobile and accessible. Opinions on this question are varied, and some people insist on the view that silence is the only appropriate background while learning. However, what is true?

Is it a good idea in the first place?

The answers to this question are contradictory. It depends a lot on the person, and what distractions he or she can tolerate. All people are different and have different levels of concentration, so while some can easily balance music and study, others simply don’t imagine it. However, this does not diminish the benefits that music brings to some people. For people who enjoy listening to music while studying, background noise can also improve mood, memory, and stamina.

Because they are listening to something enjoyable, they are more enthusiastic about focusing on the task at hand. This encourages them to study longer and leaves them less emotionally exhausted at the end of the session. Music can also reduce anxiety and stress, which improves the listener’s overall mood and mental health. For many people, the choice to listen to music while studying or not is a personal one, rather than one dictated by anyone.

What types of music are preferred?

Among people who use background music during studying, the choice between instrumental and vocal compositions makes a big difference. Many people agree that vocal compositions make it difficult to focus on the words during independent reading, so instrumental tracks are a better choice during study sessions. However, some people don’t mind listening to vocal compositions while studying.

Studies have shown that people who listen to vocal compositions while studying tend to absorb less of the information they read, while instrumental music listeners have shown better results. These tests also showed that calm, soothing music is more effective than harsh sounds, such as metal or rock. For this reason, it is better to choose songs with a calmer tone so that you don’t have to turn to paper help because of unlearned educational material.

The results also indicated a negative correlation between concentration and loud music. Listening to music too loud can also lead to hearing loss, so it is recommended that listeners use a safe volume. Many young people do not pay proper attention to their hearing, so it is also recommended to get a hearing check using tests. These tests can identify early forms of hearing loss and tinnitus caused by excessive noise.

When you don’t need to listen to music

Everyone knows that the learning process requires analyzing and remembering different facts and instructions. However, when music is played, the brain is processing two things at once. Because of this multitasking, the brain can misinterpret the information we need. Therefore, it is highly discouraged to listen to music while learning new material or reading books, especially when music has lyrics.

Listening to new music involves an element of surprise or novelty. At this point, your body releases dopamine in response to this novelty, making you feel some degree of pleasure. This can ultimately make music more appealing than any other task.

A particular playlist

If one has a strong desire to listen to music while studying (or working in general), however, one should choose each tune carefully so as not to break the focus.

Sounds of nature work well in the background, masking human speech, and have a positive effect on cognitive function and concentration.

Some movie soundtracks, instrumental or orchestral music, such as Thomas Frank’s playlist for study and work, are also suitable.