How do I set the maximum cost per click (CPC) in a Google Ads campaign?

Short Answer: To set the maximum cost per click (CPC) in a Google Ads campaign, go to the ‘keywords’ section of your Google Ads account. Search for the keywords you want to adjust, click on the current maximum CPC value for the keyword, enter the amount you’re willing to pay per click (for example, six dollars), and then click ‘Save’ to confirm your change.

Full Explanation

Setting the maximum CPC in Google Ads allows you to control how much you are willing to pay each time someone clicks on your ad for a specific keyword. This is done directly within the keywords area of your campaign management. When you navigate to the ‘keywords’ section, you will see a list of the keywords you are targeting in your campaign along with their associated max CPC values. By clicking on the current max CPC amount, you can edit and set a new maximum cost per click. This process helps manage your advertising budget and bidding strategy.

Step-by-Step Breakdown

1. Open your Google Ads account and navigate to the ‘keywords’ section.
2. Search for the specific keywords where you want to set or adjust the max CPC.
3. Locate the current max CPC value displayed next to each keyword.
4. Click on that max CPC value to activate the editing field.
5. Enter the amount you are willing to pay per click, such as six dollars.
6. Click the ‘Save’ button to apply the new maximum CPC.

Real Examples

If you have a keyword with a max CPC currently set at a lower value but are willing to pay up to six dollars per click, you simply click the existing price, type $6, and select ‘Save.’ This updates the bidding so Google Ads will not bid higher than six dollars for each click on that keyword.

Common Mistakes

• Not clicking ‘Save’ after entering the new max CPC, which means changes won’t be applied.
• Overlooking the need to search or locate the correct keyword before attempting to change the CPC.
• Failing to regularly review and adjust max CPC values based on performance or budget limits.

FAQs

Can I set different max CPC values for different keywords?
Yes, each keyword can have its own maximum cost per click you specify individually by clicking on its max CPC value.

What happens after I set the max CPC?
Google Ads will automatically use this limit when bidding for ad placements related to that keyword, ensuring you never pay more than the set amount per click.

Key Takeaways

• Adjusting max CPC is done in the ‘keywords’ section of Google Ads.
• Always click on the current max CPC value to edit it.
• Remember to save your changes to update your bids.
• Setting max CPC controls the maximum amount you pay per click for each keyword.