Many students utilize music to help them focus when studying for finals. (Detra Bell / Fourth Estate)

Become an academic weapon with sound

BY KARLOS CORIA, OPINION EDITOR

As finals season approaches, it is important to highlight a studying staple that may be more necessary than caffeine: music. From Bad Bunny to Beethoven, students across the nation have long used music as a study tool to help them focus. 

Not all music is made the same. Research shows that our brains cannot multitask. Although many would like to believe otherwise, it is not physically possible for our brains to handle multiple cognitive tasks at once. This applies to music as well. 

Researchers have found that listening to music with lyrics can negatively affect cognitive functions such as focus and comprehension. On the other hand, music without lyrics — including instrumentals, soundtracks and theme songs — has no observable effect on focus. 

Still, most students would agree that music does affect their performance while studying. The compromise between research and experience comes down to the type of music you choose. It is best to pick your music not only based on taste, but also on what you are working on. 

There is just something special about finishing a paper while an epic orchestra signals your victory over ENGH 302. 

When studying for finals, it is best to listen to music without lyrics. Some great recommendations for classical enjoyers include Mozart, Beethoven and Bach. 

I am partial to Tchaikovsky’s “Swan Lake” myself. 

For those of you more gaming-centered, I recommend C418’s discography, the “Dispatch” score by Andrew Arcadi and the soundtracks from “Halo: Reach” and “Halo 3: ODST.” The tracks range from tranquil to full-on boss fight dramatics, so make sure you match the music to the subject or topic at hand. 

Do not fret, I also have something for the anime lovers too. Anything from Hiroyuki Sawano is worth listening to, but his work on the “Attack on Titan” soundtracks is particularly exceptional and worth a listen. I also recommend Yutaka Yamada’s “Tokyo Ghoul” soundtrack. 

If gaming, classical and anime are not the vibe, here are some recommendations for the average listener. 

Japanese jazz fusion band Casiopea has something for anyone who enjoys the type of music that makes you scrunch your nose. Flawed Mangoes offers a calm, soothing vibe that you have probably already heard on TikTok. John Williams provides everything from epic battle music (I am looking at you, STEM majors) to chill, romantic tunes. 

If none of these recommendations work for you, think about your favorite movie, show or game. From there, go on Spotify, Apple Music or whatever other music platform you use and look it up. There is probably a soundtrack waiting for you.

Remember, finals are just a small obstacle in the grand scheme of things. Work hard, take care of yourself and, above all, make sure you choose the right background music for the movie that is your life.