The effects of music while you work?

Answer 1

Too many variables for this question to ever be answered definitively. Just think: first there is the type of music being listened to (and I think we can all agree that different types of music produce different effects on a person); then there are the variations in taste of the listeners (not to mention the fluctuations in mood of each individual listener!), and the kind of work being done. I think our response to music is essentially primal, meaning very instinctive and emotionally based (whereas pure thumping rhythm is even more basic, in that it's physical). I mean who hasn't felt the need to get up and dance or at least move to the beat of a lively tune? And who hasn't experienced an inexplicable heartache or clouding of mood after hearing a particularly sad or haunting piece despite having felt cheerful the moment before? Music can give you energy and get you moving, or it can have an almost narcotic effect, sapping all your will and luring you into a trance-like space. It can lift your spirits like nothing else and transport you into realms of inspiration, illumination, peace and tranquility, or religious & even physical ecstasy. Or (if it's not very good music, or is something you just don't like) it can be an annoying drone you can't escape, distracting you from your tasks at hand & insinuating itself into your consciousness.

Answer 2

It depends on the music. Soft, instrumentalmusic actually helps you to concentrate. Loud music, music with heavy beats, and vocals distract you.