Indeed, music can act as a mnemonic scaffold, much like a gentle rhythm that reminds us where we left a thought. When a melody is paired with information, the brain creates a secondary cue that helps retrieve the primary content. That said, I would caution against treating music as a panacea. The underlying structure and repetition must still be in place; otherwise, the tune becomes mere ornamentation. Think of it as a chorus that highlights the core verses of a lecture—effective, but not substituting the substance.

When I’m cramming, I don’t bother with pop hits or lyrics that can distract. I turn to a quiet piano piece, often Debussy’s “Clair‑de‑Lune.” Its steady, almost hypnotic pulse keeps my mind focused, and the subtle shifts in harmony signal to my brain that it’s time to move from one concept to the next. No flashy beats, just a steady, almost meditative backdrop that lets the facts settle in.

I usually stick to my old study desk by the window. The light is soft, the air is quiet, and I can see the trees outside change with the seasons. It’s a place where I can listen to the piano and let the notes seep into my concentration without any distractions. Moving around is fine, but the rhythm of the desk and the window’s view keep my thoughts from wandering too far.