Multi-tasking

[Mike]

We've talked about being able to read and do other things at the same time. How do people feel about that? Do you do it? CAN you do it? I really struggle to concentrate on my book, even if the distraction is music, let alone a visual distraction!

[Joanne]

I usually have music playing while I read, as otherwise other noises distract me! but it's usually classical, or instrumental at least. I can't do other things while I read, but I do read while commuting.

[Catherine]

I definitely can’t read to music, or any noise apart from ambient noise (like forest sounds or something), but I usually have a few books on the go at once. Usually different formats though - a physical read, an audiobook for commuting (not so much this year though!) and an ebook on my phone for waiting rooms and insomnia. Sometimes a non-fic too.

[Joanne]

Yes, I regularly have more than one book on the go too, but all physical books. Often a non-fiction and two different types of fiction. I try to have a smallish book for commuting and generally carrying around with me, and leave any that are too big to read at home.

[Jenny]

I often read with music on, it focuses me somehow. I love reading when I commute, and I'll be listening to music then as well. I have several books on the go at once quite a bit, my mind bounces around from one topic to the next all the time so bouncing between books feels natural. The right book will keep me from deviating till I've finished it though!

[Mike]

Whoa! Reading more than one book at a time? WAY beyond me! I find that, if I have music on, I concentrate on the music, even with classical music.

[Mike]

I’m giving the reading-to-classical-music thing a go. Currently finishing off The Banquet of Esther Rosenbaum with Grieg’s ‘Peer Gynt’ suite playing. Other props are candles, olives & garlic and Prosecco. Not a bad start to the new year!

[Mike]

It didn't work - I kept listening to the music! Back to silent study for me!