Google AdSense is one of the most popular ways to monetize a website. It allows website owners to earn money by displaying ads. The process is simple: you place ad code on your site, and Google automatically shows relevant ads to your visitors. You earn money every time a user clicks on an ad (CPC) or views it (CPM).
But how do you get started? What are the requirements? And how do you integrate AdSense with platforms like WordPress or Blogger? This guide covers everything step by step.
What is Google AdSense and How Does It Work?
Google AdSense is an advertising program by Google, launched in 2003. It connects advertisers (businesses that want to promote their products) with publishers (website owners who want to earn money by displaying ads).
How It Works:
- You sign up for a Google AdSense account.
- You add a piece of ad code to your website.
- Google’s system scans your site and matches it with relevant ads.
- Visitors see these ads while browsing your content.
- You earn revenue based on clicks (CPC) or ad impressions (CPM).
How Much Can You Earn?
Earnings depend on traffic, niche, and ad placements. On average, the CPC (Cost Per Click) ranges from $0.20 to $5, but some niches, like finance or insurance, have much higher rates.
How to Create a Google AdSense Account – Step by Step
Starting with AdSense is simple, but you need to follow certain steps:
Step 1: Sign Up for Google AdSense
- Go to https://www.google.com/adsense.
- Click “Get started” and log in with your Google account.
- Enter your website URL and email address.
- Choose if you want to receive AdSense tips (optional).
- Click “Save and Continue.”
Step 2: Enter Payment and Tax Information
- Provide your billing details (name, address, and phone number).
- Select your payment method (bank transfer, check, or wire transfer).
- Fill in tax information (required for payments).
Step 3: Verify Your Website
- Google will give you a piece of HTML code.
- Copy and paste this code into your website’s header section.
- Click “Verify” in your AdSense account.
Step 4: Wait for Approval
- Google reviews your website, which can take a few hours to a few weeks.
- Once approved, you can start displaying ads and earning money!
Google AdSense Requirements for Approval
Google AdSense does not accept every website. You must meet certain eligibility criteria:
1. Content Guidelines
✅ Your site must have original, high-quality content (not copied).
✅ The website should be at least a few months old (Google does not specify an exact time, but 3–6 months is recommended).
✅ Content should follow Google’s policies (no adult content, illegal downloads, etc.).
2. Traffic and Engagement
✅ While there’s no minimum traffic requirement, websites with at least 100 daily visitors have a better chance of approval.
3. Website Design and User Experience
✅ Your website must be easy to navigate and mobile-friendly.
✅ You need to have an About page, Privacy Policy, and Contact page.
4. Compliance with Google Policies
✅ Do not use bots or fake traffic to boost ad revenue.
✅ Your site should not be under construction.
If your site meets these criteria, your chances of approval are high!
Types of Ads in Google AdSense – Which Ones to Use?
Google AdSense offers different ad formats. Choosing the right type can increase earnings.
1. Display Ads (Recommended for Most Websites)
📌 Description: Image or text-based ads that appear on your website.
📌 Best for: Blogs, news websites, and general content sites.
2. In-Feed Ads (Best for Blogs & Content Sites)
📌 Description: Ads appear inside your content feed (like between blog posts).
📌 Best for: News websites, blogs, and articles with multiple sections.
3. In-Article Ads (Great for Long-Form Content)
📌 Description: Ads blend with the text inside articles.
📌 Best for: Blogs, educational sites, and tutorial websites.
4. Auto Ads (Easy Setup, But Less Control)
📌 Description: Google automatically places ads for you.
📌 Best for: Beginners who want a simple setup.
5. Link Ads (Being Phased Out by Google)
📌 Description: Small text ads that look like menu links.
📌 Best for: Navigation-heavy websites.
📌 ⚠ Note: Google is slowly removing this format.
For most websites, Display Ads and In-Feed Ads work best. They balance user experience and revenue.
How to Add Google AdSense to WordPress, Blogger, and Other Platforms
Once your account is approved, you need to integrate AdSense with your website.
Adding Google AdSense to WordPress (Without Plugins)
- Go to your WordPress dashboard.
- Click “Appearance” → “Theme Editor.”
- Find the “header.php” file.
- Paste your AdSense code before the closing
<head>tag. - Save changes and refresh your website.
Using a Plugin (Easier Method)
- Install “Ad Inserter” or “Advanced Ads” plugin.
- Open the plugin settings.
- Paste your AdSense code into the “Ad Code” section.
- Choose ad placement (header, sidebar, inside posts, etc.).
- Save settings, and ads will appear automatically.
Adding Google AdSense to Blogger
- Open your Blogger dashboard.
- Go to “Layout” → “Add a Gadget”.
- Select AdSense and follow the instructions.
Adding Google AdSense to Other Platforms
For websites built on Wix, Squarespace, or Shopify, use the platform’s custom code editor to insert your AdSense script into the <head> section.
Final Tips for Maximizing Google AdSense Earnings
✔ Place ads strategically – Try above-the-fold placements (ads visible without scrolling).
✔ Use responsive ads – They adjust to different screen sizes.
✔ Focus on high CPC niches – Topics like finance, insurance, and technology pay more per click.
✔ Avoid too many ads – Too many ads can lower user experience and SEO rankings.
✔ Monitor performance – Use Google AdSense reports to track which ads perform best.
Google AdSense is a powerful tool for website monetization. It’s easy to set up, but approval requires quality content, a good website design, and organic traffic. By choosing the right ad formats and placements, you can maximize earnings while keeping a great user experience.
Now that you know the basics, it’s time to apply for Google AdSense and start earning! 🚀