Determining the ideal music to listen to while working is a subjective matter with no universal answer. Srini Pillay, M.D., a Harvard psychiatrist and brain researcher, emphasizes this fact. He leverages music to enhance productivity and provides valuable advice for individuals seeking to utilize music to improve their focus.

1. Look for music without words - A study revealed that music with lyrics can significantly disrupt learning, regardless of whether you have a positive or negative opinion. According to a Harvard neuroscientist, during experiments, he discovered that lyrics in an unfamiliar language can transform into background sounds that do not hinder one's work.
2. Opt for songs you are acquainted with rather than selecting unfamiliar ones - In 2018, a study revealed that music's level of pleasure increases with familiarity. As music engages various brain regions associated with movement, the focus becomes more comprehensive and all-encompassing.
3. Experiment with pairing particular music with particular tasks - Evidence suggests that repeatedly listening to the same song can help you enter a flow state and maintain focus, preventing your mind from wandering. Pillay discovered that using music as a cue can help signal his brain about the specific type of work he concentrates on at any moment.
4. Leverage the power of music to alter your emotional state - Select music that reflects your current emotions rather than the emotions you wish to have. Opt for a melancholic song that captures the essence of your mood.

Source: https://www.inc.com/minda-zetlin/how-to-use-music-as-a-powerful-tool-to-help-you-focus-according-to-a-harvard-neuroscientist.html