The effect of music while studying depends on factors like the person, the type of music, and the task at hand. However, despite these variations, a study conducted by California State University revealed that 75% of students still listen to music while studying. After years of trial and error, I proudly say that I am a part of that 75% and NEED music to get anything done. However, one thing is certain: I need specific types of music for different subjects. If the background music I’m listening to doesn’t align with my preferences, it seriously affects my concentration and memory. If you’re anything like me and struggle with this, I’ve compiled a guide to help you find the best study music for each subject.

Math & Science 

I associate math and science with analytical subjects, so I need music that helps me with logical thinking and problem-solving without being too distracting. 

Best genres: 

• Classical 

• • • Johann Sebastian Bach
    • Johann Pachelbel
    • Franz Schubert

• Binaural beats 

• • • Videos by Magnetic Minds
    • Videos by Leap of Faith 

• Movie/show soundtracks 

• • Interstellar (Cornfield Chase – Hans Zimmer)
  • Oppenheimer (Can you hear the music – Ludwig Goransson)
  • Succession (Adagio in C Minor – Nicholas Britell) 
  • The Imitation Game (Main theme – Alexandre Desplat) 
  • The Crown (Duck Shoot – Rupert Gregson-Williams) 

History 

I am a history nerd, so I will go down a rabbit hole and watch countless documentaries on specific historical periods. The reason I love watching them so much is because, to me, history tells a story and involves critical thinking. For this reason, while studying for history, I prefer music that is immersive but not too overwhelming. 

Best genres: 

• Jazz 

• • • Bill Evans
    • Miles Davis
    • Thelonious Monk
    • James Moody

• Movie soundtracks

• • • The Hobbit (entire soundtrack) 
    • Narnia (entire soundtrack) 
    • 1984 (entire soundtrack) 

• Instrumental folk/acoustic  

• • John Fahey 
  • Robbie Basho
  • Chris Thile

English 

To write a good piece, I have to be in a relaxed mood, and one of the most powerful ways to accomplish this is through music. I look for music that flows well and keeps me in a creative mood for English. 

Best genres: 

• Soft classical

• • • Jules Massenet
    • Claude Debussy

• Nature sounds  

• • Videos by The Guild of Ambiance
  • Videos by Cozy Rain

Electives/busy work: 

I can listen to energetic, lyrical music for my electives or mindless tasks like organizing, formatting, listing, etc. 

Best genres: 

• Pop

• • • Sabrina Carpenter 
    • Ariana Grande 
    • Selena Gomez
    • Shakira
    • Chappell Roan

• Indie rock 

• • The Smiths 
  • Arctic Monkeys 
  • Beach Bunny 
  • The Neighborhood

I hope this list has helped you discover some new types of study music to get you through your next study session! Happy studying!