which do you prefer?

I trained myself to ignore the distractions and I just studied. But to be honest many times I went to the library and studied there. Also, there was a lounge and I use to take a nap there as well.

During my hostel life, my room had become common room gor my friends. Even during exam time they used to come to my room either for discussion or entertainment. For me it, these things never mattered. Yeah if you say loud noise ( i mean unbearable, like market or rock show ), then it we can't study. Have light music, call friends, have a cup of tea. Study should be fun and not a burden that you have to do it else you will fail. If you think that way, you will never develop interest in your subject and so you will feel drowsy and distracted.

I can relate to that. When one is drowsy or distracted it is going to be impossible to study. Some light music can help to focus the mind, but it is important not to focus on the music either! ;) I often like peace and quiet and do not have the music on at all. I do agree that this can lead to distraction or becoming drowsy so at times I like to listen to classical music while I am studying, without paying too much attention to it, I find that it can help to keep the mind alert without overwhelming. Sometimes it can be any genre of music, rock pop or whatever as long as I don't have it on too loud. Good luck with your studies. :)