Adding keywords to Google Ads is essential for optimizing your ad campaigns and reaching the right audience. First, log into your Google Ads account, then navigate to the campaign and ad group you want to add keywords to. Click on the "Keywords" tab, enter your desired keywords, and save your changes. This process ensures that your ads appear when people search for terms related to your business.
How to Add Keywords to Google Ads
Adding keywords to Google Ads is all about making sure your ads get in front of the right people. Follow these steps to make sure your ads are optimized for the best performance.
Step 1: Log into your Google Ads account
The first step is to sign in to your Google Ads account.
This will give you access to your campaigns, ad groups, and keywords.
Step 2: Navigate to the campaign you want to edit
Once logged in, find the campaign you want to add keywords to by clicking on its name.
This will help you stay organized and ensure you’re adding keywords to the correct campaign.
Step 3: Click on the ad group within the campaign
Within the chosen campaign, click on the specific ad group where you want to add keywords.
Ad groups allow you to organize your keywords and ads more effectively.
Step 4: Click on the "Keywords" tab
In the ad group, click on the "Keywords" tab to access the keyword settings.
This is where you will manage all your keywords for this particular ad group.
Step 5: Enter your desired keywords
Click on the "+" button or "Add keywords" to input your chosen keywords.
Consider using a mix of broad, phrase, and exact match types to cover different search intents.
Step 6: Save your changes
After entering your keywords, make sure to save your changes.
This step ensures that your new keywords are active in your ad campaign.
After you complete these steps, your targeted ads will start appearing when users search for the keywords you’ve added. This will help increase your ad’s visibility and relevance to your audience.
Tips for Adding Keywords to Google Ads
- Use keyword planning tools: Tools like Google Keyword Planner can help you find relevant keywords that have high search volumes and low competition.
- Think like your audience: Use terms and phrases that your target audience is likely to use when searching for your product or service.
- Mix keyword match types: Use a combination of broad, phrase, and exact match types to capture a wider range of search queries.
- Negative keywords: Include negative keywords to prevent your ad from showing up in irrelevant searches.
- Regularly review and update: Keep an eye on your keyword performance and make adjustments as needed to improve your campaign.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are negative keywords?
Negative keywords are terms you add to your campaigns to prevent your ads from showing up for unrelated searches.
How often should I update my keywords?
It’s a good idea to review your keywords at least once a month to ensure they are still relevant and performing well.
What is a keyword match type?
Keyword match types control how closely a search query must match your keyword for your ad to be considered for the auction.
How can I find new keywords?
Use tools like Google Keyword Planner, look at competitor keywords, and consider using customer feedback to find new keywords.
Can I use trademarks in my keywords?
Generally, Google Ads has specific rules regarding the use of trademarks, so it’s best to check their policy or consult with a legal expert.
Summary
- Log into your Google Ads account
- Navigate to the campaign you want to edit
- Click on the ad group within the campaign
- Click on the "Keywords" tab
- Enter your desired keywords
- Save your changes
Conclusion
Adding keywords to Google Ads is a fundamental step in ensuring that your ad campaigns reach the right audience. By carefully selecting and managing your keywords, you can optimize your ad performance and get the most bang for your buck. Remember to use a mix of keyword match types, include negative keywords, and regularly review your keyword list. These practices will help you stay ahead of the competition and drive more qualified traffic to your website.
If you’re new to Google Ads or looking to refine your strategy, don’t hesitate to dive deeper into keyword research tools and best practices. By taking the time to thoroughly understand how to add keywords to Google Ads, you’ll be well on your way to running successful ad campaigns that deliver real results. Happy advertising!

Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.