Is it beneficial to study with music? Where is the perfect balance?

I'm sure it's happened to you: you're sitting there with your books open and you think about putting on some background music. Is it good to study with music? Well, the truth is that there's no single answer. It all depends on what kind of music you choose, how you study, and what exactly you have to do. But what we can tell you is that if you choose the right soundtrack, it can be your best ally for concentrating and getting rid of those nerves.

The power of music to help you concentrate

When you choose the right music to study and concentrate, interesting things happen in your brain. According to a study cited by the University of Maryland, instrumental or ambient music acts as a kind of shield against distractions. It helps you stay focused and, incidentally, reduces the anxiety that sometimes arises when you start studying.

An interesting fact: in a study involving medical students, almost half (47%) said that music helped them concentrate better, and 29% acknowledged that it calmed them down while studying. Of course, we must bear in mind that it doesn't work the same way for everyone.

Listening to music while studying is beneficial because it improves your mood, motivates you to continue, and can even help with memory. However, it is also true that some people find it distracting. The key is in the type of music you choose and when you play it. Experts are clear: if you go for music without lyrics —classical, soft electronic, movie soundtracks—you are much more likely to do well.

Relaxing music for studying: choosing the right tone

If you're looking for relaxing music to study to, go for calm rhythms without vocals that won't compete for your attention. Soundtracks and classical music are safe bets for creating an atmosphere conducive to studying.

There are even pieces created specifically for relaxation. For example, "Weightless" by Marconi Union is designed to reduce stress by up to 65% in just 8 minutes, according to studies by Mindlab. Other research suggests that instrumental music can put you in that state of "flow" where everything flows and learning becomes deeper.

Music and cognition: beyond the notes

According to a study by the Catholic University of La Plata, listening to music improves attention and problem-solving skills, and has a notable effect on information retention by stimulating the prefrontal lobe.

And that's not all. Research shows that when you combine music with movement ( even if it's very subtle while you study), it stimulates both your memory and your mood.

The real benefits of studying music

In short, when you choose the right music, these are the most obvious benefits:

• Better concentration: music acts as a barrier against outside noise and creates a consistent environment where it is easier to maintain focus.
• Less stress: the right melody has real physical effects: it regulates your heart rate and calms your mind. It's like a natural anti-anxiety medication.
• Stronger memory: melodies become mental hooks that make it easier to remember what you have studied.
• Extra motivation: starting your session with a song you like can give you that boost of energy you need.
• Prevents mental exhaustion: gentle rhythms prevent your brain from becoming overloaded, which is especially useful during long sessions.

Tips for getting the most out of music while studying

You already know that music can be your ally, but how can you make it really work? After everything we've seen, here are some practical tips you can apply starting today to make your next study session more effective.

• Opt for instrumental or ambient music, without lyrics that might distract you.
• Aim for a heart rate between 60 and 80 beats per minute, which is the ideal range for maintaining focus.
• Create specific playlists for studying or search for "deep focus" playlists.
• Adjust the volume properly: it should be noticeable but not overpowering, and there should be no awkward silence.

Music to study and prepare for your university career

At Stephouse, we understand that music is an important part of any student's daily life. That's why we've created two special experiences that you can find, among others, in the Activity Plan section:

• StepFest: monthly themed sessions with DJs or live music where you can unwind, dance, and meet other students who are in the same situation as you.
• StepStage: intimate concerts and events throughout the year, where you can discover new talent or, why not, showcase your own.

This is how we combine those moments of total concentration (with your study music playing in the background) with social and cultural experiences that make living in residence more than just studying.

Ultimately, studying with music can be very beneficial, but it must be done correctly. The key is to choose instrumental music, without lyrics, with a moderate tempo. Scientific studies support that it can improve your concentration, reduce stress, and strengthen your memory.

Of course, everyone is different. The best thing to do is to try things out for yourself, find the style and volume that suits you best, and develop your own formula.

Stephouse, the student residence that has it all

If you're looking for a residence where you can study in peace, make real connections with other students, and enjoy music both inside and outside the studio, Stephouse could be just what you need. You'll have spaces designed for silence and concentration (co-working, quiet common areas), but you'll also be able to enjoy unique experiences with StepFest and StepStage.

Ready to achieve your academic goals with the perfect soundtrack? Take a look at our residences in different Spanish cities and everything we offer. Get ready to study in your own style, connect with people like you, and experience music in a way that only Step House can give you.