We all have different study styles. Some prefer pin-drop silence during studies, while others happily sit among their family chatter and study or do their homework. Yet some just can’t seem to resist music and feel more comfortable studying while having music in the background, as it enhances their focus and retention.

If you are not among those, you might wonder how can someone study while playing tunes in the background or on their headphones. Several researches show listening to music while studying can help you concentrate better and remember more. Simply put, music has the power to put your brain in a kind of ‘study mode’ and topics stick better because it gives your mood a little boost, so studying feels less tedious.

Many researchers found that music impacts the limbic system and stimulates emotions, which can increase motivation and engagement with the material at hand. It is also said that music activates brain regions associated with focus, memory and movement. While each of us has different music preferences that boost our moods and emotions, it’s worth noting that chill out and Zen music energise and motivate us more because slower melodies promote calmness and reflection.

This is because the instrumental music, devoid of lyrics, is often best suited for studying due to the fact that the absence of words prevents the multitasking brain from splitting its focus between voice and rhetorical analysis. For instance, certain types of music, particularly Baroque classical compositions such as those by Bach or Mozart, have been linked to improved memory retention. On the other hand, ambient electronic, a genre of music that emphasises tone and atmosphere over traditional musical structure or rhythm, proves ideal for maintaining concentration and boosting positivity. It is advisable to avoid upbeat pop tunes during study sessions because loud beats can distract and attract more attention of the listener to them than what is being studied.

In the 1990s, Professor Gordon L. Shaw, one of the founding faculties of the University of California, developed a theory called The Mozart Effect. He along with his students, studied brain theory and how our brains solve problems. Dr Shaw asked a group of students to listen to Mozart’s sonatas often. After some time, he tested them and found their IQ scores went up by nine points!

Other scientists tried the same experiment, but did not always get the same results. So, it seems different people’s brains are helped more or less by Mozart’s music or, to put it simply, classical or music without rhetoric. But one thing is clear — calm and peaceful music likely makes thinking and learning a little easier.

Everyone’s taste in music is unique. There’s no right or wrong — some melodies just click more with certain people while other tunes just go against their interests. But finding the right music can create a pleasant atmosphere for learning. So if listening to relaxing music helps you study better, don’t feel guilty about playing some tunes in the background, but make sure it remains soothing to the ears and not thumping and bouncing your brain cells.

Published in Dawn, Young World, February 3rd, 2024