One of my favorite ways to help concentrate when studying is to listen to calming music. This helps me beat stress or anxiety while studying. “The right choice of music, such as instrumental or ambient music, can help block out distractions, improve concentration, and maintain attention during study sessions,” said Phyllis Medina, PhD, program director of psychology at University of Maryland Global Campus. Background  music helps improve focus on  tasks and aid endurance.

“Anyway”-Noah Kahan

My personal favorite, Noah Kahan fills his songs with meaning in every lyric. His meaningful folk-infused pop is a great sound to accompany you whilst studying. Anyway’s opening guitar/base paves the sympathetic song. These lyrics send reassurance like “honey don’t worry” and “stare into the vacancy, take a deep breath” send a message of relaxation to the brain. “I think studying is beneficial depending on the type of music”, said FCHS student Jackson Choe (11)

“Your Power”-Billie Eilish

Something about this song just always brings me to a more relaxed state. The opening guitar’s mix of plucking and strumming is overwhelmingly ingenious. Not to overlook her incredibly ranged voice, soft and breathy yet controlled and powerful, leaves a sense of overwhelming relaxation.   

   “Green Eyes”-Coldplay

With an adoring sentiment, this song gives me overwhelming joy and comfort. Whether or not you have a loved one in your corner, this song never fails to make you feel just a little more special. Coldplay cleverly scatters similes throughout the song. And yet again, the guitar is just so magical.

“Vienna”-Billy Joel

What a classic. Something so iconic about this song miraculously puts me into a better mood. The piano adds the soft-rock aspect Joel does so indescribably well. “Music helps me relax and be able to fully focus on studying while also keeping me awake”, says FCHS student Eliana Tamayo (11). With uplifting lyrics, your brain simultaneously feels somewhat powerful. As your body starts to move, so does your mind. 

 “How to Dream”-Sam Phillips 

As a huge Gilmore Girls fan, this nostalgic song brings so much comfort. There’s just something so calming about Phillip’s voice. Being a bit deeper, her voice allows maximum comfort. The rasp in her voice compliments the guitar immensely. This song has no issue getting me into the Rory Gilmore mindset when studying.