- #1
robotkid786
- 22
- 7
Is it better to study with or without music?
Does Music Improve Concentration During Study Sessions?
- Music
- Thread starter robotkid786
- Start date
-
- Tags
- Concentration Music Study
In summary, the impact of music on concentration during study sessions varies among individuals. Some studies suggest that background music can enhance focus and retention, particularly when it is instrumental or has a moderate tempo. However, other research indicates that music may be distracting, especially if it contains lyrics or is too loud. Ultimately, the effectiveness of music for concentration depends on personal preferences, the type of task, and the specific characteristics of the music being played.
- #2
berkeman
Mentor
- 68,320
- 22,082
That's a hard "No" from me; it's too distracting. Why would you want to be distracted from concentrating on your studying and work? If you're doing something really easy, then sure, music or talk radio can be fun. But when I need to 100% focus on something technical, I don't want any distractions.
- #3
robotkid786
- 22
- 7
I agree, I can't get myself to work with music. Hella distracting. It's enjoyable. But not the same enjoyable as solving a problem which can only be done when in peaceberkeman said:
- #4
Nik_2213
- 1,218
- 493
IIRC, my brother could only study with music playing. I could only study without...
Perhaps relevant, I was happy for my beloved wife to play tapes / CDs in car for 'routine' driving. But, if road became 'busy' and my work-load increased, either I'd shift the stereo signal to her side, effectively muting mine, or shut it off completely.
Must also be said that when I began to hum, she learned to halt the music system and watch the road for 'Hostiles' in full 'co-pilot' mode. Also, the one time we found ourselves on a busy motorway (UK=Freeway) in a furious down-pour with severe spray, scant visibility, all lights on, 'Due Care' speed etc etc, and I began to sing, --In key !!-- she hitched her seat belt tighter, drew elbows, knees and feet close, per first stage of air-liner 'Crash Position'...
YMMV...
Perhaps relevant, I was happy for my beloved wife to play tapes / CDs in car for 'routine' driving. But, if road became 'busy' and my work-load increased, either I'd shift the stereo signal to her side, effectively muting mine, or shut it off completely.
Must also be said that when I began to hum, she learned to halt the music system and watch the road for 'Hostiles' in full 'co-pilot' mode. Also, the one time we found ourselves on a busy motorway (UK=Freeway) in a furious down-pour with severe spray, scant visibility, all lights on, 'Due Care' speed etc etc, and I began to sing, --In key !!-- she hitched her seat belt tighter, drew elbows, knees and feet close, per first stage of air-liner 'Crash Position'...
YMMV...
- #5
pinball1970
Gold Member
- 3,148
- 4,573
No. If you don't play or really love music then you may get away with it.
I absolutely could not do it, I still cannot work with music in the office.
We have a small radio but it's low and faces away from my door. I walked past it Friday then explained why "Toxic" by Britney Spears is a great track to the team.
It's a 60s track, should be. The groove, the chromatic on the chorus. C B7 to Bb7...
Then I tried to remember why I had left my office.
Good music is a fantastic thing AND a distraction. Bad music is an annoying distraction.
Neither good for study.
I absolutely could not do it, I still cannot work with music in the office.
We have a small radio but it's low and faces away from my door. I walked past it Friday then explained why "Toxic" by Britney Spears is a great track to the team.
It's a 60s track, should be. The groove, the chromatic on the chorus. C B7 to Bb7...
Then I tried to remember why I had left my office.
Good music is a fantastic thing AND a distraction. Bad music is an annoying distraction.
Neither good for study.
- #6
BillTre
Science Advisor
Gold Member
- 2,593
- 10,626
Answer should vary among different people.
For me it varies with the particular situation.
When I was an undergrad in rowdy dorm at an almost party school (in the 1970s) I would put on loud music to drown out all the other noise. If it was music I was familiar with (less distracting) this would work well. My grades were quite good at this time.
For me its an aide in blocking out distractions.
In quieter situations, I would use less loud or no music.
For me it varies with the particular situation.
When I was an undergrad in rowdy dorm at an almost party school (in the 1970s) I would put on loud music to drown out all the other noise. If it was music I was familiar with (less distracting) this would work well. My grades were quite good at this time.
For me its an aide in blocking out distractions.
In quieter situations, I would use less loud or no music.
- #7
robotkid786
- 22
- 7
These answers are helpful. I've been feeling guilty that I use music in my downtime to cheer myself on and then don't use music when studying. Which means a lot of my time is spent with music and a lot less is spent without music playing. But as far as study efficency goes. It's making sense this approach is working.
I've also got say. I've noticed, I only study when I feel good and ready. I never force myself to study. This further adds tot be guilt that I'm not studying but makes the study so much more enjoyable and accomplished feeling when I finally do study
I've also got say. I've noticed, I only study when I feel good and ready. I never force myself to study. This further adds tot be guilt that I'm not studying but makes the study so much more enjoyable and accomplished feeling when I finally do study
- #8
BillTre
Science Advisor
Gold Member
- 2,593
- 10,626
My approach was to study on a schedule.robotkid786 said:
Once you are used to your schedule, it should be easier to study in a good mood.
- #9
Math100
- 797
- 221
It really depends on the person/individual. Everyone is different. For me, I cannot study with music, mainly because I get distracted very easily, since my blood type is O.robotkid786 said:
- #10
DaveC426913
Gold Member
- 22,998
- 6,677
Math100 said:
- #11
PhDeezNutz
- 807
- 554
Math100 said:
I'm assuming this is a reference to Type O Negative (the band)
in which case \m/
Unless there is some link between blood type O and attention problems that I don't know about.
For those who don't know
Well dammit, i tried embedding two different videos and they both require you to watch it on youtube
- #12
Vanadium 50
Staff Emeritus
Science Advisor
Education Advisor
2023 Award
- 35,005
- 21,674
Two words:
Everybody Polka!
Study to that? You betcha!
Everybody Polka!
Study to that? You betcha!
- #13
berkeman
Mentor
- 68,320
- 22,082
The full medical term is "blood type O Noes". Just to be technical...Math100 said:
- #14
walkeraj
- 17
- 4
Music playing...
FAQ: Does Music Improve Concentration During Study Sessions?
1. Does listening to music while studying improve concentration?
Research suggests that music can enhance concentration for some individuals, particularly if the music is instrumental and has a steady tempo. This type of music can create a pleasant background that helps to mask distracting noises and can promote a positive mood, which may improve focus. However, the effectiveness of music varies from person to person, and some may find it distracting.
2. What type of music is best for studying?
Instrumental music, such as classical, ambient, or electronic genres, is often recommended for studying. These types of music typically lack lyrics that can divert attention and have a calming effect. Additionally, music with a moderate tempo can help maintain a steady workflow without overwhelming the listener.
3. Can music be distracting while studying?
Yes, for some individuals, music can be a distraction, especially if it contains lyrics or is too loud. Music that evokes strong emotions or is too dynamic can draw attention away from the task at hand. It's important for each person to experiment with different types of music to determine what works best for their concentration.
4. Does the volume of music affect concentration?
Yes, the volume of music can significantly impact concentration. Music that is played at a moderate volume can enhance focus, while music that is too loud may become a distraction. It's advisable to keep the volume at a level where it can be heard but does not overpower the surrounding environment or the task being performed.
5. Are there any specific studies that support the use of music for studying?
Several studies have explored the relationship between music and cognitive performance. For instance, research has shown that background music can enhance performance on tasks that require sustained attention. However, findings can be mixed, and it is important to consider individual preferences and responses to music when assessing its impact on study effectiveness.