1. Oppenheimer Soundtrack
Watching this movie was an experience elevated only by its superb soundtrack. It’s exciting and calming at the same time, with mellower tunes and also louder melodies to keep you engaged while studying. I’ve found that I look forward to studying when I listen to the Oppenheimer soundtrack – I think I’ve been sort of Pavlov’d into getting straight into the books when I hear the first violins. This is my go-to study music not only because I really liked the movie, but also because I sort of imagine myself within the environment Oppenheimer is in when I’m studying, even though I’m really only solving problems about heat transfer. Honestly, most movie soundtracks work, so feel free to find your own favourite, but for me, it’s this one.
2. White noise
Perfect for blocking distractions, white noise is sure to make you super focused and set, especially in louder environments (such as the Bastille or the library sometimes). White noise can get you in the zone, if you know what I’m talking about, and I’ve found that this delivers the best results when I’m in a time crunch. There’s just something about the specific frequency of most of these white/brown/pink noise sounds that blocks other noises and keeps you alert.
3. Rain noises
Similar to white noise, rain noises fill the silence with sounds of droplets splattering against the ground. I prefer this to white noise most of the time, since I don’t always need to hard-focus when I’m studying. Having a familiar sound like rain is quite calming and comforting, in my opinion, and makes studying a pleasant experience.
4. Classical music
Classical music has been a staple in academia for ages, so it’s only sensical that it makes for good listening while studying. Personally, I’m not a fan of it, since the music just makes me want to hum along and I don’t end up getting work done, but if you are into it, there are certainly some piano pieces that help you get to work. Ludovico Einaudi springs to mind, as his music is incredible but also easy to just listen to. I also really like listening to Tchaikovsky, but that’s more for when I’m reading something and not actually working on a problem set.
5. Instrumental jazz
Who doesn’t like jazz? It’s the definition of easy-to-listen, background music that you put on when you don’t want your environment to seem lonely. It’s upbeat, springy, and also makes for a great companion when studying.
6. Video Game soundtracks
Video game music is designed to be immersive yet non-intrusive, which makes it an excellent choice for studying. Coconut Mall from the Mario Kart games was making the rounds all over social media because of how good it was – apparently something about the beat made it super easy to focus and get work done. I like to listen to the Terraria soundtrack, since there’s a touch of nostalgia to it, making studying all the more enjoyable.
7. Lofi Hip-Hop Beats
Lofi beats have become sort of synonymous with studying, and for good reason. This type of music is chill, easy to listen to, and what’s more – you barely notice it! The smooth, low-key beats provide a rhythmic and relaxing background without being too intrusive. It’s almost like white noise but with a melody. The YouTube stream is extremely popular, and the Lofi Girl has spent millions of hours studying alongside us students.
8. Study & Focus Frequencies
If all else fails, you could try this new ‘beta waves’ playlist that ‘supposedly’ increases your I.Q while you’re studying. Jokes aside, I really wasn’t sure what to make of this when I was listening to it, as I felt listening to white noise was better, but I’m sure it has its uses somewhere. As long as the music isn’t intrusive, then there’s nothing wrong with it.
9. Our very own UT Study Playlist
Did we miss something? Do you have a recommendation that you simply cannot withhold from your fellow UT students? Add them to our very own UT Study Playlist! Sharing is caring, especially when it comes to music. 🫶🏼
