Google Ads Explained: What Newbies Need to Know
Introduction
Google Ads is one of the most powerful advertising tools online—but for beginners, it can feel like learning a new language.
If you're wondering whether Google Ads is right for you (and how it actually works), this breakdown is for you.
What Is Google Ads?
Google Ads is pay-per-click (PPC) advertising where you only pay when someone clicks your ad. You can run ads:
• On Google Search results (search campaigns)
• On YouTube and partner websites (display or video campaigns) • In Gmail or discovery feeds
How It Works
1. Someone searches “Instagram marketing coach”
2. You’ve bid on that keyword
3. Your ad shows at the top of the search
4. You only pay if they click
Campaign Types for Beginners
• Search Campaigns: Great for leads and services
• Display Campaigns: Visual banners shown across the web • Video Ads: YouTube placements
• Smart Campaigns: Google automates targeting (good for small biz) Start with Search campaigns—they’re most direct.
Key Terms You Need to Know
• Keyword: What someone types into Google
• CPC: Cost per click
• Quality Score: Google’s rating of your ad relevance (affects your costs) • Impressions: How many times your ad is shown
• Conversions: Leads or sales generated from your ads
Budgeting for Google Ads
• Start with $10–$20/day
• Focus on low competition, high-intent keywords
• Use Google’s Keyword Planner to research phrases people search for Example: Instead of “marketing,” target “Instagram coach for therapists”
What Makes a Good Google Ad?
• Compelling headline (50% of clicks depend on this!)
• Clear call-to-action
• Relevant landing page
• Keywords in both the ad copy and landing page text
What to Avoid
�� Sending traffic to your homepage
�� Using broad match keywords (start with phrase match)
�� Ignoring conversion tracking
Conclusion
Google Ads doesn’t need to be intimidating. Start small, target clear keywords, write a strong offer, and send traffic to a high-converting landing page. The clicks—and customers—will follow.
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