Whether we recognize it or not, music serves a major role in our daily lives– from the banging of garbage cans outside, the song in your favorite commercial, to the shuffle on your iPod. It is no wonder then, that music has been shown to help students be more productive in their studies and in the workplace.

Traditionally, listening to music or watching television while studying were thought to be a distraction. But recent findings have shown that listening to music can, in fact, increase productivity rather than decrease it. At a study taken place at The University of Illinois, researchers found that listening to music in all types of work increased output by 6.3 percent.

Although the study does prove that listening to music can improve work ethic, it does not apply to all genres of music. So hold off on bringing your favorite Metallica CD to your next group session. According to David Allen, author of “Getting things done”, there are specific types of music that increase productivity. These consist of traditional, classical music and what is referred to as “noise.”

Listening to classical music, such as Mozart, is said to increase the ability to think out long-term, more abstract solutions to logical problems. Also, because classical music is soothing, it creates a relaxing environment in which to study. Not ready to give up your Gucci Mane just yet? Well, listening to just the instrumental versions of songs is also suggested. An instrumental eliminates the distraction of words.

Researchers recommend using “noise” when the environment, itself, is already a distraction, i.e. when you’re studying in a room filled with talking roommates and/or co-workers. This approach covers up irritating sounds with other soft soothing sounds to mask what you don’t want to hear. “Noise” is not necessarily music, but is  more so sounds that will help your concentration and focus. Try using CDs of nature sounds or the ocean.

Listening to music is always fun, so now you know it’s perfectly okay to pop in those earbuds during your next study session. Try experiementing with different types of music. You may even want to try developing a whole playlist! Try it out and let us know how it goes. Leave your comments below!