To study with music or without? That’s the question.

According to a couple of ECC professors, the answer is: it depends. 

“Music can motivate you if it doesn’t distract you,” said Shawn Maxwell, an ECC music professor. “It can help you focus or concentrate. That’s a balancing act for all people.”

To help with concentration, “instrumental music seems to be better for that,” Maxwell explained.

But this varies person to person. 

“Personality and character affects that type of music chosen to study.” Maxwell said. 

ECC music professor, Adam Schlipmann, also recommends instrumental music for studying. 

 “Generally, I would suggest music without lyrics or overly intricate rhythm and instrumentation in order to minimize distractions,” he said.

Can music boost the effectiveness of your studying?

“I’m unsure about the effectiveness of listening to music while studying,” Schlipmann said. “For me, it has always been a distraction rather than an aid, but my brain is probably wired differently than others’, so I’m not sure I could recommend anything definitely.” 

However, he shares that he listens to music when he’s preparing for class.

“I only listen to music in preparation if listening examples are part of the lesson,” Schlipmann said. “I will do that in order to get the example fresh in my mind.”

Music may also impact your mood. 

“If you’re going to work, you can use it (music) to enhance your mood,” Maxwell said. You can boost your creativity throughout a task.”