While we may prefer different genres of focus music, we can all agree that the right playlist has the magical ability to boost concentration. It allows us to zero in, drown out distractions, and get cracking on the task at hand. Now, you may be wondering: does this mean we can elevate brain power and creativity with the right music?
The short answer: yes.
It’s no secret that music activates the most diverse networks of the human brain. Research has even proven that people with ADHD focus better with the right music. Now imagine the possibilities students like you can unlock with focus music.
Finding the right key
At the basic level, each song is composed in a major or minor key. Pop songs, for example, are usually made up of major notes like C major and G major. On the other hand of the spectrum, you’ll find their minor counterparts A minor and E minor.
Why does any of this matter? Well, one University of Connecticut study found that the key of your focus music can influence your performance while listening to it. Undergrads listening to music in a major mode were able to complete tasks faster than those listening to music in a minor mode.
In other words, upbeat “happy” music is better for focus. This is because major-key music encourages brain activity more than minor-key music. At the same time, slower, minor-key music may be more suited to introverts or more complex tasks (which are clearly defined).
To focus, choose music in major keys. Source: Jack Guez/AFP
Why ambient and classical are the best focus music
With that said, choosing the right type of music can make or break your focus. For example, most people find it easier to focus while listening to instrumental songs — because following lyrics can be distracting. The same goes for songs with complex structures or arrangements.
For students, the right focus music should be tunes that allow you to absorb and retain new information.
Research has proven that classical tunes are the ultimate focus music. There’s even a term for this phenomenon: the Mozart Effect. Listening to classical music when you study arouses your brain, making it easier to absorb new information in a meaningful way.
Ambient music is another solid option for studying. This type of focus music sets a tone or atmosphere, allowing you to immerse yourself in it without much thought to song lyrics or structure.
So the next time you’re doubling down on revision or assignments, select a classical or ambient music playlist to be your companion. Even if these are not your preferred genres, your brain likes them more than you think.
FAQs
“Studying can be stressful, and excessive anxiety can hinder learning and memory consolidation,” says Medina. “The right choice of music, such as instrumental or ambient music, can help block out distractions, improve concentration, and maintain attention during study sessions.”
What music is proven to help focus? ›
We have found that the best genres of music to listen to while studying, reading or writing include minimalist, classical, piano and low-fi music.
What is the scientifically proven best study music? ›
Classical: The best music for concentration
As far as concentration goes, science dictates that classical music is the best for studying. This calming playlist is 3 hours long and features some of the most famous and brilliant piano sonatas by Mozart. It's perfect for studying, concentration and reading.
What does research say about listening to music while studying? ›
Is music good while studying? Some research suggests that music can help reduce stress during an academic task and that it may help with memory and processing during tasks that require thinking.
What percentage of students focus better with music? ›
A recent survey estimated that around 60% of students use music to help with studying. Previous studies have suggested around 50% do so.
Does music help ADHD students focus? ›
Music therapy for children with ADHD
Their thoughts move at record speed, making it hard to slow down and concentrate on one thing at a time or focus for very long on one task. A study done in 2020 showed that music seemed to improve focus and attentiveness in children diagnosed with ADHD.
What sound improves concentration? ›
White noise is often used to help people concentrate because it can help to mask other sounds that might be distracting. For example, if you're trying to study in a coffee shop, the sound of people chatting and coffee machines may be distracting.
Which song increases brain power? ›
1 ('Divertimento in D major') – Mozart.
What to listen to while studying ADHD? ›
Many people with ADHD gravitate to instrumental music because it generally has a very structured rhythm that helps people focus. 3 In addition, instrumental music is more common because it doesn't have words that can be distracting.
Does music impact studying? ›
Music may improve focus and concentration for some people when studying, but for others, it may be distracting and have a negative impact on learning. The tempo and intensity of music may also have an effect. Listening to music when studying or concentrating may not affect each person in the same way.
Although listening to music can make studying more enjoyable, psychologists from the Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences have found that this popular study habit is more distracting than beneficial.
How music affects students academic performance? ›
Music has a positive impact on the academic performance of students . Musical activities enhance students' capacity to learn and improve their academic performance . Listening to music while studying can help students concentrate and keep their minds calm, leading to increased academic performance .
Does music help you study Harvard? ›
The answer is, because music can activate almost all brain regions and networks, it can help to keep a myriad of brain pathways and networks strong, including those networks that are involved in well-being, learning, cognitive function, quality of life, and happiness.
Does music increase productivity study? ›
Music is also positive for your productivity because it activates the reward centers of your brain, especially when you hear a novel cord or a moment where the music shifts, according to research led by McGill University and published in PNAS (Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences).
Should students listen to music in class? ›
Music in your classroom
According to PBS, research suggests that studying music can enhance learning in other subjects and teach kids skills that they'll use in multiple areas of life. "Music learning supports all learning," Kenneth Guilmartin, co-founder of Music Together, told PBS.
Do most students listen to music while studying? ›
About 50 to 60 percent of students listen to music while studying or working, but does music actually improve your concentration and productivity? Music provides many benefits when trying to be productive and increase your learning.
