In a recent paper, Spencer Coles CEO at Mander Portman Woodward has investigated the impact of listening to music on students’ revision effectiveness, examining various psychological factors and research findings which offer an insight into the impact of music on revision.
This is certainly a question I am asked on a regular basis in the lead up to both internal assessments and the public exams, both by students and parents. Of course, listening to music while studying is a common practice among teenagers, but its effects on revision quality are complex and vary by individual.
Research indicates that whether music aids or hinders learning is influenced by factors including boredom threshold, anxiety proneness, introversion/extroversion, as well as working memory capacity. In addition, it seems that the impact of music during revision is influenced by students’ personality traits and their current mental state. Understanding these traits can help tailor study environments for better outcomes.
Students with low boredom thresholds may find music distracting, while those with high thresholds may benefit from it. Where students demonstrate higher anxiety levels, this can lead to less efficient learning and calming music may help. However, introverted students often perform better in silence, while extroverts may tolerate music better.
Working memory capacity plays a crucial role in how music affects revision. Students with lower working memory may struggle to concentrate with music playing, while those with higher capacity may find it a matter of personal preference. However, what is clear is that working memory is limited and music can overload cognitive processing capacity in any student.
The presence of lyrics in music can lead to added distractions during revision, known as the ‘seductive details effect’. If music is preferred, choosing the right type is therefore essential for maintaining focus, since music with lyrics, especially in a familiar language, can negatively impact comprehension. Unsurprisingly then, instrumental music is generally considered more beneficial for studying than music with lyrics. Additionally, nature sounds and ambient music can enhance cognitive performance and reduce anxiety.
To maximise revision effectiveness, students should consider their individual needs and preferences regarding music. Students should avoid music that is fast, loud, or has abrupt changes. Instead they should opt for slow, instrumental tracks. Recommended tracks include ambient pieces by Brian Eno and classical compositions by Debussy and Satie. Nature sounds and soft electronic music are also beneficial for creating a relaxing study atmosphere.
For students who insist music helps, parents could suggest they listen between study sessions rather than during them. This preserves the mood-enhancing benefits without compromising cognitive resources. A carefully curated playlist before studying can improve motivation and silence during the actual revision session leads to optimal focus.
In a final piece of advice, Coles reinforces the point that silence is ideal for revision, especially as assessments approach, since this offers the best parallel to conditions in the exam room.