Ad Tracking Checklist

Make sure you have the foundations in place before you spend a dollar

Pre-Launch Ad Tracking Checklist

Complete these steps before running your first ad

Analytics Setup

  • Google Analytics 4 installed and verified Confirm data is flowing by checking real-time reports
  • Google Ads conversion tracking set up Track leads, purchases, or key actions
  • Google Ads and GA4 accounts linked This enables better attribution and audience sharing
  • UTM parameters configured Tag all ad URLs with source, medium, and campaign

Landing Page Readiness

  • Dedicated landing page created (not homepage) Match the page to your ad message
  • Mobile-responsive design verified Test on multiple devices - 60%+ of traffic is mobile
  • Page load speed under 3 seconds Use Google PageSpeed Insights to test
  • Clear call-to-action above the fold Visitors should know what to do immediately
  • Form or conversion point working Test your forms submit correctly and you receive the data

Know Your Numbers

  • Average customer value calculated Know how much each new customer is worth
  • Target cost per lead defined What can you afford to pay for a lead?
  • Lead-to-customer conversion rate known What % of leads become paying customers?
  • Monthly budget set with clear limits Don't start without a defined budget

Warning Signs to Watch

  • High clicks but no conversions Landing page or targeting issue
  • Cost per click way above industry average Review keyword relevance and quality score
  • Low impression share due to budget You're missing potential clicks
  • High bounce rate on landing page Page isn't matching user expectations

Save This Checklist

Print this page or bookmark it to reference before launching your campaigns.

Pre-Launch Checklist

Everything you need to verify before spending your first dollar on ads.

Know Your Numbers

Key metrics you need to understand to run profitable campaigns.

Warning Signs

Red flags to watch for and what they might mean for your campaigns.

Want Expert Help Setting This Up?

Getting tracking right is critical. If you want a professional to handle setup and optimization, we can help.

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