By Jess Brannen, Web Editor

You don’t have to listen to Beethoven to reap the benefits of listening to music while you study. Whether it’s a last-second cram sesh (we hope not!) or a regular night of rewriting lecture notes, the decision to listen to music – and which kind – is wholly up to you. Cognitive psychologists have found links between certain music and effectiveness that may help you choose your next study playlist.

If you’re writing a paper, reading a book, or studying a foreign language, try artists with little to no lyrics, try these artists:

Bonobo

Loess

Emancipator

The xx

Stereo MC’s

If you’re doing more science-y or mathematical work, go for some of these artists:

Max Sedgley

Tycho

Don Caballero

Pretty Lights

Thievery Corporation

Depeche Mode