What Is the Best Music to Study To? 5 Examples & Tips

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There is an endless debate about whether it is beneficial or not to listen to music while you study. Some suggest that it can boost cognitive abilities even if for a short period. Others say that silence is the best environment for education.

No matter what scientists say, students stick to their habits. It can be anything that helps a student, whether it is a specific playlist, a favorite academic help website like Studyfy, or a particular place, like a nearby café.

Let’s put it simply – if you like to listen to music while you study, it works for you. If you do not enjoy it and cannot concentrate – it doesn’t work for you.

Is Music Beneficial for Students?

It has been now proved that the Mozart effect is a myth. We know now that tunes do not make us smarter. But this fact shouldn’t discourage you if you enjoy particular music while studying. There are many health benefits of listening to favorite songs, such as:

Stress reduction;
Boosting a better mood;
Increasing heart health;
Stimulation of memory;
Reduction of pain;
Relief of depressive symptoms.

The most prominent effects this activity has on mood, memory, and stress. That’s why it is quite advantageous to listen to songs while you are working on an essay or research paper. The question is what type of songs or melodies are the best to turn on?

What Music Is the Best for Studying?

The main rule in choosing a playlist is to trust your gut. You probably have specific songs that help you stay motivated and boost your confidence. Turn them on before the study session.

Different genres and artists have various effects on mood and concentration. Pick the playlist that goes with the rhythm of studying, whether you need something upbeat and dynamic or a little bit chill. Here are other suggestions that might work for students.

Classical Music

It might not be for everyone, but it is a good choice when it comes to concentration. Try listening to Vivaldi, Bach, or Mozart. Such tunes are less distracting and help to focus on the subject while covering any other noises. The fact that there are no lyrics can also help those concentrated on writing or reading, as there are no additional distractions.

They are perfect for stress reduction and setting the tone. They can also help with boosting creativity and memorizing new material. YouTube offers a great variety of classical playlists for students to turn on.

Lo-Fi

For those who are into the chill and relaxing tunes, Lo-Fi is a perfect choice. And the fact that this genre is known for being imperfect can help cut off perfectionism in your education. It is quite slow in pace and rather sets the mood.

Consider checking out Lo-Fi hip-hop radio by ChilledCow on YouTube. It works as a constant translation and a lot of students tune in and chat in while listening to it. Lo-Fi is a great choice for those who don’t want to be distracted and prefer the mood of a rainy day.

Nature Sounds

Strictly speaking, sounds of nature do not qualify as music. But they are one of the best ways to relax and reduce stress. Of course, if you are usually listening to sounds of rain before going to bed, it is not a great choice. It builds the habit and the brain will get the signal to prepare to sleep.

Still, if you are new to this, try studying to the sounds of rain, ocean, wind, or any other tune that is enjoyable.

This type of sound is perfect for those who are easily distracted. It creates a particular type of white noise that keeps you focused on the task rather than concentrating on listening to what is going on around.

If you are not into listening to songs but need something to shield you from the environment, this is a great choice. It is also quite slow-paced and monotone, which is perfect for reading, researching, and writing.

Jazz

Instrumental tunes are also great to set the tone of the session and keep one in a mood. Jazz is an amazing option as it can be both chill and upbeat. It helps to concentrate and keeps memory sharp while being not too intrusive. Also, having such tunes in the background can help you feel like in a movie or an old-fashioned café.

This type of music definitely gives a great vibe and boosts motivation. It helps to reduce stress and anxiety and works great for those who prefer something without lyrics. Jazz is also known for endorsing creativity. So it would be excellent for students working on a creative assignment or writing essay. Another benefit is that you can listen to it for a long time without getting tired.

Ambient

Ambient is a genre that is all about setting the tone instead of following the traditional musical structure. The melodies here are usually not structured, the bit might be missing, but there is almost nothing as relaxing and stress-beating as this type of sound. And stress is the main enemy of remembering things and being efficient while studying.

Ambient is light, usually very slow-paced and neutral in tone. It has a kind of what some would call an extraterrestrial vibe. Its main goal is to give a certain feel with the use of non-traditional instruments or patterns.

It might not be for everyone, but when you are working on something consuming all of your mental capabilities, this music can really help.

In Summary

Music is a powerful source of inspiration, motivation, and creativity. It sets the mood and boosts productivity. The essential part of choosing a playlist for studying is selecting what works for you.

Some tunes are more relaxing; others are upbeat and help to stay on track. Pick the ones that are suitable for this particular task and its rhythm. Create your perfect playlist or use the ones available online: the choice is yours.

Bernard - Side-Line Staff Chief editor

Bernard Van Isacker is the Chief Editor of Side-Line Magazine. With a career spanning more than two decades, Van Isacker has established himself as a respected figure in the darkwave scene.

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