By Arden Berry | Arts & Life Editor
Now that school is back in session, you may find yourself with a flood of readings, projects, essays and tests coming your way. Though the waves may seem fierce, there is a lifeline to keep you from going too deep: music.
However, not all homework music is created equally. Your typical lyrical tunes might be too distracting when you’re trying to keep your head clear. Fortunately, through the years, I have developed a list of music to check out depending on what kind of assignment you are working on. If you’re tired of falling asleep to the same pop instrumentals and classical pieces, here are my recommendations.
Classic homework
From math problems to Latin translations, the everyday assignments can start to blend together as you undertake the same process to answer each question.
With these assignments, I can handle some lyrics, provided both the concepts and the songs are familiar. What’s familiar can change depending on who you are, but, universally, I would find or put together an 80s, 90s or early 2000s pop playlist with familiar tunes. Pick songs that will keep you engaged but will not sidetrack you by causing you to question what song is playing.
Readings
I typically do not listen to music when I read because I like reading enough that I often don’t need something in the background, but sometimes even I find my eyes glazing over.
For reading, you need something stimulating but not distracting. My go-to is “The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild” soundtrack. The music is calming but unique.
If you really want to get creative, find some music that relates to what you’re reading. There are many videos on YouTube that compile music from a variety of time periods. You can find medieval music if you’re on a trek through “The Canterbury Tales” or classical music to assist you through some Jane Austen.
Essays
When I’m two paragraphs deep into a 1,000-word journey, I like to listen something inspiring or intense. Essays are for the final-lap Mario Kart music.
My favorite essay music is the “Terraria” soundtrack. I find the music very engaging, but each of the songs sound similar enough that it makes for consistent background noise as I travel further into my essay.
Projects
Depending on your classes, your projects could be anything from research to graphic design to a series of complex equations. But, if you’re in your classes for your major, your projects should, at least in your opinion, be fun.
As such, you’ll want some fun music for your projects. Pick your favorite movie or video game and find the soundtrack. If you don’t have one of either, take my favorite video game: “Stardew Valley.” The music is often cheery and a delightful listen for any project-doing student.
Studying
I’ll be direct: when it’s time to lock in for an exam, you need Nintendo music. “Animal Crossing” music is especially effective. Find one of those “head-emptying” Nintendo music videos on YouTube and get working on that study guide.
