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Running your first Google Search Ad can feel confusing—especially if you’ve never used Google Ads before.
But don’t worry. In this quick guide, I’ll walk you through exactly how to set up a Search Ad step by step, even if you’re a complete beginner.

By the end of this post, you’ll know how to launch your first Google Search campaign with confidence.

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Step 1: Log In to Your Google Ads Account

Start by logging into your Google Ads account.
Once you’re inside the dashboard, look for the “Create” button and click on it.

From the options available, select Campaign to begin setting up your ad.

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Step 2: Choose Your Campaign Goal

Google Ads will now ask you to select a campaign objective.

• Choose Website Traffic
• Click Continue

This option is ideal if your goal is to drive visitors directly to your website.

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Step 3: Select Campaign Type – Search

Next, Google will ask which type of campaign you want to run.

• Select Search
• Enter your website URL
• Click Continue

Search ads appear when people actively search for services or products like yours, making them highly effective.

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Step 4: Name Your Search Ad Campaign

Now, give your campaign a name.

Best practice:
Always include the date in your campaign name.
This makes it easier to track performance later.

Example:
Website Traffic – Search – Aug 2025

Click Continue once done.

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Step 5: Bidding Settings

• Choose Start New
• Select Conversions as your bidding strategy
• Click Next

This helps Google optimize your ad delivery toward meaningful actions, not just clicks.

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Step 6: Choose Your Target Locations

Now it’s time to decide where your ad will show.

You have two options:

• Target all countries and territories
• Or choose specific locations

If you want to target a specific area:

• Click Enter another location
• Use Advanced Search to select locations directly on the map
• Save your selected location

This is especially useful for local businesses.

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Step 7: Select Language & Audience Settings

• Choose English as your language
• When asked about geopolitical targeting, select No
• Click Next

These settings keep your targeting simple and beginner-friendly.

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Step 8: Skip Google AI Max (For Now)

Google may suggest using AI Max recommendations.

For beginners:

• Skip this option
• Stick to manual control so you understand how everything works

You can explore AI optimization later once you’re comfortable.

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Step 9: Create Your Ad Group & Keywords

Now, create an Ad Group.

• Add keywords related to your business or services
• Use keywords that match what your customers are searching for

👉 If you need help with keyword research or keyword planning, we’ve already covered this in a separate video on our YouTube channel.

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Step 10: Write Headlines & Descriptions

Google requires:

• At least 3 headlines
• At least 2 descriptions

Add:

• Clear, benefit-driven headlines
• Simple, persuasive descriptions

Make sure your messaging matches what your audience is searching for.

Once done, click Save.

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Step 11: Set Your Daily Budget

Now choose how much you want to spend per day.

Start small if you’re new—you can always increase your budget later once you see results.

Click Next.

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Step 12: Review & Publish Your Ad

You’re almost done.

• Review all your campaign settings
• Double-check your keywords, headlines, budget, and locations

If everything looks good:

• Click Publish

🎉 Your Google Search Ad is now live!