Many students listen to music while doing homework and studying but does this behavior truly benefit them in learning?  Music makes studying more enjoyable and helps to pass the time but it does not necessarily increase a person’s focus on the subject at hand unless specific conditions are followed.

Anna Schlemmer, junior, says, “I like to listen to pop, rock, and alternative music while I study but when I really need to focus I usually turn the music off because sometimes it is distracting.”

The majority of people like to listen to music that they know well and enjoy, normally with lyrics, while doing work.  Classical music, music with no words, and ambient sounds, however are actually more beneficial to encouraging one’s concentration.  When doing homework that relates to language or writing, it is especially important not to listen to music with words because it will make paying attention more difficult.

In addition to that, music should also be kept to a medium to low sound level and should not be too agitating in order to maximize focus.  When music is too loud or overly fast-paced, it becomes more of a distraction than a helpful tool.

Achieving the perfect balance between volume and tempo often results in better comprehension.  Brianna Mastrolembo, junior, says, “I listen to pop music while studying but I like to keep it quiet and in the background so that it helps me stay in the zone.”

Spotify offers a variety of playlists dedicated solely to studying that can definitely help students to focus.  They also have a wide selection of classical music similar to other music services like Pandora and YouTube.  Some students also benefit from listening to ambient or background sounds that can be found on websites like Rainy Mood, Coffitivity, and A Soft Murmur.