Music and the Brain: Why Your Study Playlist Might Be Smarter Than You Think
At My Total Tutor, we’ve seen it time and again—students who tap into music as they study often report feeling more focused, less anxious, and surprisingly energized. But this isn’t just anecdotal. Neuroscience backs it up: music doesn’t just move your mood, it moves your brain.
Whether your child is prepping for the SAT, brushing up on pre-algebra, or tackling AP World History, the right tunes might help more than just pass the time.
How Music Affects the Brain
When you listen to music, your brain lights up like a switchboard. Research using fMRI scans shows that music activates multiple areas simultaneously: the auditory cortex, the motor regions, the hippocampus (hello, memory!), and even the prefrontal cortex—the part responsible for decision-making, planning, and focus.
In fact, a 2017 study published in Scientific Reports found that listening to instrumental music increased activity in the brain’s default mode network, which is linked to introspection and memory recall. This can be especially powerful for students who are engaging in reflective writing, complex problem-solving, or essay planning.
Not All Music Is Created Equal
Let’s get one thing straight: not all music helps learning. Lyrics can sometimes compete with language processing, which is why instrumental genres like classical, lo-fi beats, or ambient soundtracks work best for tasks like reading, studying math, or writing essays. This aligns with what we teach in our executive functioning coaching at My Total Tutor—learning how to create the right environment is half the battle.
Want better retention for that biology exam? Try Baroque. Need a calm mind to focus on SAT practice? Lo-fi hip hop might just be your brain’s best friend.
The Neuroscience of Learning and Dopamine
Music also plays with our reward system. When we hear music we enjoy, the brain releases dopamine, the “feel-good” neurotransmitter that boosts motivation and attention. This dopamine rush can reduce stress and improve mood—both critical for learning, especially in high-pressure academic settings.
This is why, at My Total Tutor, we encourage our students to build personalized study rituals. If music helps you look forward to study time, that’s a neuroscience-backed hack worth using.
What This Means for Students
At My Total Tutor, we go beyond rote memorization. Our tutoring programs are rooted in understanding how students actually learn—and music is one of many tools we use to tap into that potential.
Whether it’s helping a middle schooler build math confidence, supporting a high schooler through their college apps, or preparing for high-stakes tests, we believe learning should feel human, holistic, and—yes—sometimes musical.
Looking for a tutor who understands how your brain works?
We offer personalized academic coaching, subject-specific tutoring, and executive functioning support—designed to help students thrive.
📚 Book a free consultation at www.mytotaltutor.com and learn how we help students learn smarter, not harder.
