Responding to Sacred Matters During Study
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Question
Should one interrupt their study to respond to Barchu, Amen, Kaddish, Kedusha? And is there a difference between being in the same room or another room?
Answer
Shalom Rav
When you are in the same room, you should respond with the congregation.
When you are not in the same room, if it disturbs your study, there is no obligation to interrupt.
Source
Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chaim, Siman 55, Seif 20 states that one who is not with the congregation 'may respond'.
The poskim are divided on whether this is merely 'may' or 'must'.
In practice, according to the instructions of the Gaon, Rabbi, shlita, if he is in the same room, he must respond. If he is not in the same room, he is not obligated.