When it is time to focus, there are a few things that will help to ready your mind, and promote memory and retention. Before you begin your study session, be sure you have fueled your body with healthy snacks. This helps to get your brain in the...right state of mind.
Ensure your study space has limited distractions. Your desk or study room should be filled with tools that will encourage concentration. To help, consider listening to music while you study—the right music choice can boost your overall productivity level and provide the motivation you need.
The Best Study Music
The following types of music are recommended for studying, along with tips to help you choose which genre will keep you most focused on your objective – studying.- Classical Listening to Classical music is known to be both peaceful and harmonious, creating a calm and serene study environment. It is often referenced as one of the best studying genres for students because listeners report side effects like better mood and increased productivity—often referred to as the Mozart effect. Try listening to Bach’s Brandenburg Concerto #3, or the Spotify playlist Study Classics: Bach.
- Timed Tempos Studies have shown that music timed at 60 beats per minute can help put people’s minds into ease; putting brains into a more productive mode where thinking are creativity are easier. According to Music in the Classroom, “...it helps regulate the brain's rhythm, regulating the movement and improving impulse control, which balances the very specialized powers of the left and right hemispheres.” Try it out with a 60 Beats per Minute Classroom Music playlist.
- Instrumental Ambient Sounds If you prefer a more modern flair, a combo of instrumental music and electronic may be the perfect option for you. Relaxing sounds of instruments can be paired with modern tunes to get the best of both worlds. The Vitamin String Quartet (VSQ) Study playlist includes fun renditions of the popular song Running Up That Hill and even cover music from Netflix’s Bridgerton series.
- Nature Sounds This type of “music” is perfect for those not so into classical music. It’s known for increasing concentration levels and keeping the listener’s mind engaged at a more subconscious level. It also can be very calming, which is why many use it to help with meditation and to fall asleep. What falls into this category are soundtracks of nature like waterfalls, rain or the sounds of the seashore rolling in. Add the Exam Study Nature Music Nature Sounds playlist to your next study session.
- Modern Electronic Modern electronic is also commonly referred to as “chill” music. The genres include Ambient House, Ambient Trance, New Age and Trip Hop. They are known to relax the mind, encouraging it to roam. Be careful not to let it roam too much, however – you want to stay focused on the task at hand! Set the right study vibe with the Spotify playlist, New Age Mix.