Struggling to stay focused while studying? Check out our handpicked playlists and podcasts, perfect for boosting your concentration and keeping you motivated.
Staying focused, motivated, and stress-free is no easy feat when it comes to exams and assignment deadlines. As someone with ADHD, studying has always been a bit of a challenge for me - staying focused for long periods can be tough, and I’ve had to experiment with different strategies to make revision work for me.
Since starting at Hallam, I’ve discovered a few playlists and podcasts on Spotify that make all the difference. I’m sharing my tried-and-true recommendations in the hope of making your exam season just a little easier.
Study playlists to power through revision
Music can set the tone for your study session, but choosing the wrong tunes can lead to more singing along than actual studying. These are my top recommendations for playlists that keep distractions at bay and productivity at an all-time high:
This playlist is my ultimate go-to when I need full concentration. The chill, repetitive beats create a soft backdrop for focusing on complex tasks. There are no lyrics to distract you, just a steady rhythm to keep you in the zone.
Perfect for when you need to tackle that massive reading list you’ve been putting off. These minimalist tracks help drown out background noise while keeping your brain engaged.
Think electronic beats with a dash of calm. This playlist is ideal for coding, solving equations, or any task that requires a bit of mental gymnastics.
Sometimes, you just can’t beat the classics. This playlist features timeless compositions that can boost concentration and spark creativity.
5. Custom Playlists
If none of these quite hit the mark, why not create your own? Mix and match your favourite instrumental tracks or sounds to suit you.
Podcasts for study breaks and motivation
Taking breaks is key when you’re studying. If you overdo it, you’ll burn out quicker making it harder to concentrate and retain information. Short, regular breaks allow your brain to reset, helping you stay sharp and focused for longer periods.
Podcasts can be a great way to reset your mind and learn something new without stressing about exams. These are some of my current favourite podcasts:
This podcast topped my Spotify Wrapped this year, so it’s safe to say I’m a huge fan. If you haven’t come across it yet, it’s hosted by Lily Allen and Miquita Oliver. They dive into candid conversations and share insightful stories about relationships, personal growth, and self-discovery. It feels just like sitting next to your friends and listening in on their heartfelt chats!
Whether you’ve got ADHD or not, you need to listen to this podcast. Listening to Alex Partridge talk about all different tips and tricks in a way that’s actually doable is really refreshing. There’s no judgment, just honest conversations about stuff we all deal with, like procrastination, struggling to focus, and even mental health. Plus, they bring on experts and people with ADHD to share their own experiences, so it’s both helpful and super motivating.
I’ve picked up so many little habits that make uni life less chaotic, and it’s nice knowing I’m not alone in this!
I love this podcast because you can pick an episode that fits exactly what you need in the moment - whether that's a quick hit of inspiration or some fresh knowledge. Each episode feels like a mini class, diving into all kinds of topics like science, personal growth, tech, art, and so much more.
I'm obsessed with anything Louis Theroux creates - his voice is so calming! On his podcast, he dives into deep conversations with all kinds of guests, offering fascinating insights into society, culture, and human behaviour. It’s both educational and thought-provoking.
If you’re studying sociology, journalism, or just love exploring new ideas, this podcast is packed with perspectives that can totally level up your understanding and complement your studies.
This podcast is certainly different compared to my other recommendations; it features real-life horror stories and bizarre experiences, shared by everyday people. Hosted by Rainn Wilson, each episode feels like a suspenseful short film that keeps you hooked. It’s the perfect way to unwind after a long day, especially if you’re like me and can’t get enough of murder documentaries.
How to make Spotify work for you
- Use focus timers: Pair your playlists with study techniques like the Pomodoro method. Spotify’s pre-made playlists often fit perfectly into 25- or 50-minute sessions.
- Download for offline use: Don’t let bad Wi-Fi disrupt your flow. Download your playlists and podcasts in advance.
- Explore ambient sounds: Sometimes the sounds of nature or white noise can be more effective than music. Check out Spotify’s Nature Sounds or White Noise playlists.
- Set the mood: If you’re studying late, dim the lights and use Spotify’s Chill Evening playlist to keep your energy levels steady without feeling overstimulated.
Studying doesn’t have to feel chaotic or overwhelming. The right playlists and podcasts can turn studying into something productive, motivating, and maybe even a little enjoyable (yes, really!). Spotify has been a lifesaver for helping me stay focused and calm when everything feels a bit too much.
I hope these work for you like they’ve worked for me. Stay focused and motivated - you’ve got this!