Should students listen to background music while studying? This question may sound simple, but the answer is far more complex. Many students believe that listening to music can improve focus and help them complete tasks. Unfortunately, scientific evidence shows that this belief isn’t always accurate, and in some cases, it may even be harmful.

Research shows that the effect of music while studying greatly depends on context. In some situations, music can be neutral or even have a positive impact. However, in many other cases, music actually disrupts the learning process—especially when the task requires high concentration or involves language processing. This disturbance is not universal but rather involves a complex interaction between the brain, the type of music, and the nature of the task.

One explanation for this is the finding that music and language share the same neural pathways in the brain. This means that when someone listens to music with lyrics while reading or writing, their brain is forced to divide the same cognitive resources. As a result, an “interference effect” occurs, which slows down and makes information processing—especially language-based tasks—less efficient. A 2021 study confirmed that lyrics in a familiar language can interfere with language learning activities, including vocabulary memorization or reading comprehension.

Another study from 2018 showed that background music has a small but consistent negative effect on reading comprehension. For instance, when a song has sudden rhythm changes or extreme mood shifts, our brain has to adapt to those changes. Although this adaptation happens unconsciously, it still consumes cognitive resources that should be used to understand the reading material or solve problems.

That said, not all effects of music are negative. In some cases, music can actually support the learning process, especially by improving mood and motivation. Music with pleasant melodies or tunes that are already familiar can lift one’s spirits and make a person feel more ready to study. This is particularly helpful when feeling lazy or tired. A 2023 study showed that music can trigger positive emotional responses, and a good mood is closely linked to study motivation.

However, these benefits are more noticeable when the task is light and doesn’t require complex thinking. For example, when copying notes, creating mind maps, or rehearsing memorized material, music can be a pleasant companion. But when the task demands deep analysis, building arguments, or understanding new concepts, music can become a distraction.

This view is supported by Daniel Willingham, a cognitive psychologist, who explains that music has two conflicting effects. On one hand, music can be enjoyable, calming, and improve mood. On the other, it can be distracting—especially during complex tasks. If the task is not demanding, listening to music might be enjoyable. But if the task is challenging, music is not powerful enough to boost motivation and may even add to the cognitive load.

For students who still wish to listen to music while studying, there are some strategies to ensure that music doesn’t become a distraction. First, choose music without lyrics, since lyrics tend to interfere with verbal thinking. Instrumental music—such as classical, ambient, or light jazz—is safer for studying. Second, use music that is very familiar so the brain doesn’t need to actively process it. Third, avoid music with drastic tempo or rhythm changes. Fourth, use music only for light and repetitive tasks—not for reading or writing. Lastly, use music to trigger focus at the beginning of a study session, then turn it off when full concentration is needed.

Music can be a useful tool if used properly. However, it shouldn’t be relied on as the main support in the learning process. Students need to understand that focus and comprehension require an environment free from distractions. Relying on music to make studying feel more enjoyable may sound appealing, but if it ultimately reduces understanding, its use should be reconsidered. With a wise approach, students can still enjoy music without sacrificing the effectiveness of their learning.