I've also had a number of people ask me about whether I listen to podcasts while doing other things like writing code, books, articles, blog posts or responding to emails?

The answer is a resounding "no". I find that I cannot listen to someone talking about one topic while writing about another. I listen to them while driving, travelling on public transport or working around the house. I also find I can't listen to most of my favourite music while writing code. That doesn't work either.

What is interesting though, is I find total silence even worse when writing code. I find I have to turn on a radio, TV or something. I suspect it's because when there are no other sounds, every little sound that does happen is distracting. It could be a noise the chair makes when I move around or a blind hitting the wall in another room.

While I've never really been into classical music, I suspect it is the answer. So many great writers have commented that they prefer working to classical music. What's your experience?

Greg