The ‘Study With Me' Trend Among Gen Z: Focus Buddy or Digital Distraction?

India Today

10 hours ago

In an age of endless distractions, Gen Z has turned to a quiet and surprising form of motivation: watching strangers study online.The 'Study With Me' trend where YouTubers livestream or record themselves studying in real time has grown into a global digital habit. Whether it's a two-hour Pomodoro session or a 10-hour livestream with ambient sounds, these videos aren't meant to entertain, but to help others focus.advertisementBut does it really work for most students?WHAT IS 'STUDY WITH ME' TREND
The concept originated in countries like South Korea and Japan, where students began livestreaming their study sessions to stay accountable. Over time, it evolved into structured videos featuring soft music, countdown timers, aesthetic desk setups, and silent focus periods.Today, 'Study With Me' content is found across YouTube, TikTok, and Discord servers, often mimicking cosy library vibes or minimal, ambient workspaces.Beyond these streaming platforms, students can also join live virtual study spaces like StudyStream. This platform offers 'focus rooms' where learners from around the world study together in real time via video calls.It helps students stay motivated and accountable by working alongside others, even if they're far apart. Users can choose to have their cameras on or off, while keeping the room quiet and free from distractions.StudyStream also has a supportive online community where members share tips and encouragement, making it easier to stay focused and connected.Many creators behind the trend have a passion for building communities and offering support to fellow students.Their core motivation behind the trend is creating a global network of virtual study buddies who encourage and support each other through shared digital spaces.
Today, 'Study With Me' content is found across YouTube, TikTok, and Discord servers, often mimicking cosy library vibes or minimal, ambient workspaces.
WHY STUDY WITH ME TREND WORKS FOR SOMEFor students who thrive on structure or need a sense of companionship while studying alone, these videos can offer both routine and motivation.Many creators use the Pomodoro method, timed focus sessions with built-in breaks, which helps students maintain consistent productivity over hours.The calm, uninterrupted rhythm of these videos makes them a go-to for those looking to limit distractions without working in complete silence.In one YouTube video titled '2 Hour Study With Me | Background noise, Birds Chirping, 10-min break, No Music, Study with Merve', she explains, 'I hope this study video helps you avoid using social media while you study. Hopefully, this will get you more motivated to study. I hope that helps you know that I'm there studying with you.'advertisementThis message reinforces her goal: creating a virtual 'study buddy' through quiet companionship and a calming environment.WHEN IT IS ABOUT AESTHETICS, NOT THE STUDYFor some Gen Z viewers, 'Study With Me' is less about productivity and more about atmosphere. The aesthetic, clean desks, ambient lighting, rain sounds, and neatly arranged stationery, create a calm vibe that many find emotionally soothing or visually satisfying.While it doesn't always lead to deep focus, it offers a curated, peaceful environment that can feel comforting, even if one isn't actively studying.But it is not true for everyone.Despite its popularity, 'Study With Me' isn't a universal solution. Some students feel that watching someone else study can become yet another form of procrastination. Others find the experience too passive or overly curated.And while the aesthetic aspect is a draw for some, others feel it can create unnecessary pressure to have a 'perfect' study space, rather than focusing on what works for them.
When it's about making a clean and aesthetic space to study and not study itself (AI-generated image)
advertisementWHAT STUDENTS ARE SAYINGIn a small survey conducted via Google Forms amongst college-age students, 77.8% of respondents said they do not use 'Study With Me' videos as part of their study routine.Reasons ranged from preferring silence to finding screens more distracting than helpful.The remaining 22.2% said the videos help them stay accountable or feel less alone during long hours of self-study, especially for competitive exams or during online classes.VOICES FROM REAL STUDENTSSometimes, the best study advice comes from those in the middle of it.Khushi, a student at the University of Delhi, says she turns to 'Study With Me' videos when she needs to stay focused. 'Seeing someone else stay on track helps me stay disciplined too,' she said.Avya, an undergraduate student in New Delhi, shared that long study sessions often feel easier when she watches others study online. 'It feels like I'm not studying alone.'advertisementThe 'Study With Me' trend may not suit every learner, but for some, it offers a subtle kind of support that goes beyond the screen. Whether it's a background presence, a motivational tool, or just a calming visual routine, it reflects Gen Z's evolving relationship with learning, productivity, and mental well-being.As education becomes more hybrid and self-driven, these virtual study rooms might just become a quiet fixture in how students build focus and community from afar.Article written by Yashika Pawar- Ends