Author: chankang

Google Ads App Campaign: Grow Installs & In-App Actions

Google Ads Ep9 Google Ads App Campaign A Google Ads App Campaign, previously known as UAC (Universal App Campaign), is a campaign type designed to promote mobile apps on both iOS and Android. Instead of using keywords or manual targeting, Google automatically tests and combines your text, images, and videos to find the best-performing ads across Google Search, YouTube, Google Play, and the Display Network. The campaign’s main goal is to drive app installs and or in-app actions using Google’s machine learning. How Does an App Campaign Work? An App Campaign works by using Google’s machine learning to automatically create, test, and optimize ads across Google Search, YouTube, Google Play, and the Display Network. Instead of manually choosing keywords or placements, you provide assets like text lines, images, videos, and your app store link. Google then determines who is most likely to install or engage with your app and delivers ads to those users. Over time, the system learns which asset combinations and audiences drive the best installs or in-app actions, improving performance automatically. Ad Placement of App Campaign Google Play StoreYour app can appear as promoted listings when users browse or search for apps on the Play Store. Google SearchAds show when users search for app-related queries or keywords relevant to your app’s category. YouTubeVideo and display ads appear across YouTube to reach users likely to install or engage with your app. Chrome HomepageYour app might be promoted on the Chrome mobile homepage as recommended content for potential users. Google Display NetworkAds appear across millions of websites and apps to reach users matched by Google’s install or engagement signals. Advantages of App Campaigns Unified automation across Google channelsApp Campaigns use machine learning to automatically test and optimize assets, saving time on manual setup and targeting. Access to multiple high-traffic placementsAds can appear across Google Search, Google Play, YouTube, Chrome, and the Display Network, offering broad reach without separate campaigns. Optimized for installs or in-app actionsGoogle’s system analyzes user behavior to find people most likely to install or complete specific in-app events, improving campaign efficiency. Minimal setup requirementsAdvertisers only need to provide text, images, videos, and an app store link; Google handles the rest. Limitations of App Campaigns Limited manual controlSince Google automates targeting, bidding, and asset combinations, advertisers have less control over keywords, placements, and audience settings. Requires strong creative assetsPerformance depends heavily on the quality and variety of text, images, and videos provided; weak assets can limit optimization. Learning period affects early performanceNew campaigns typically need time to gather data, which may cause fluctuations during the first 7–14 days. Less transparent reportingDetailed insight into audience segments and placement performance is restricted, making deep analysis more challenging compared to other campaign types. Campaign Subtypes in App Campaigns 1. App Install This subtype focuses on driving new installs by finding users who are most likely to download your app on iOS or Android. 2. App Engagement Designed for users who already have your app installed, this subtype encourages them to return, complete specific in-app actions, or re-engage with key features. 3. App Pre-Registration (Android only) Available on the Google Play Store, this subtype promotes upcoming app launches by encouraging users to pre-register before the app becomes publicly available. Conversion Tracking for App Campaigns To measure performance accurately, App Campaigns support several conversion tracking methods.  You can track app installs and in-app actions using Google Analytics for Firebase, third-party app analytics platforms, or the App Conversion Tracking and Remarketing API. For Android apps, you can also track conversions directly through Google Play, which provides more seamless and reliable install data.  These tracking methods help Google understand which users are most valuable, allowing the system to optimize toward your desired outcomes. Setting the Right Campaign Goal Your optimization goal should match what you want to achieve: App Install: Focuses on maximizing installs at an efficient CPI, for example, a gaming app launching a new title and aiming for rapid user acquisition. Install (Advanced): Targets users who are not only likely to install but also to complete an early in-app action, such as a transportation app optimizing toward first rides. In-App Action: Prioritizes specific post-install events at a target CPA, such as a travel app optimizing toward flight bookings. Choosing the correct goal ensures the campaign reaches users who are most valuable for your app’s growth and long-term performance. FAQs Do App Campaigns work for iOS and Android? Yes, App Campaigns support both iOS and Android apps, allowing you to promote installs across both platforms.  However, tracking and optimization are smoother on Android because Google Play provides direct install and in-app action reporting.  For iOS, proper setup through Firebase or third-party analytics is required to ensure accurate conversion tracking. What is Google Analytics for Firebase? GA Firebase Google Analytics for Firebase is an analytics platform designed specifically for mobile apps. It tracks user behavior, installs, and in-app events, helping advertisers understand how people interact with their app. This data also integrates with Google Ads to improve App Campaign optimization and measure performance accurately. What is CPI? CPI (Cost Per Install) is the amount you pay for each new app install generated from your ads. What is deep linking? Deep linking sends users directly to a specific page or screen inside your app instead of just opening the app’s homepage. Can my App Campaign ads appear on the Apple App Store or Huawei AppGallery? No, App Campaign ads cannot appear on the Apple App Store or Huawei AppGallery, as these platforms are outside Google’s advertising ecosystem. Google App Campaigns only run on Google-owned properties such as Google Search, Google Play, YouTube, and the Display Network. Common App Marketplace What are Google Play, the Apple App Store, and Huawei AppGallery called? Google Play, the Apple App Store, and Huawei AppGallery are all mobile app marketplaces where users download, update, and manage apps for their devices.  They serve as official distribution platforms for Android and iOS applications, each operating within its own ecosystem. What is Google

Google Ads Shopping Campaign: Complete Guide for Beginners

Google Ads Ep8 Understanding Google Shopping Campaign A Google Shopping Campaign is an ad type that promotes products using images, prices, and key details directly on Google Search and the Shopping tab.  Instead of using keywords, Shopping Ads are powered by your product feed from Google Merchant Center, allowing Google to match your products to relevant search queries.  This campaign type is designed for e-commerce businesses that want to showcase products visually and drive high-intent shoppers to purchase. How Does a Shopping Campaign Work? A Shopping Campaign pulls product data, such as titles, images, prices, and availability, from your Google Merchant Center feed. Google uses this information, rather than keywords, to match your products to relevant search queries. When a user searches for items you sell, Google automatically shows your product as a visual Shopping Ad.  The system then optimizes bids and placements to reach shoppers who are most likely to click and purchase. Advertisers upload product data to the Merchant Center through a product feed. When users search, Google scans the feed to find products that match the query. Google ranks the products based on the advertiser’s bid and the product’s relevance to the search. Higher-ranked products appear on Google Search or Google Shopping. Advertisers only pay when users click the ad (PPC), which takes them to the product’s landing page on the merchant’s website. Shopping Ads Ad placement of Shopping campaign (where your ads appear?) Shopping ads appear in several high-visibility locations across Google. These include the top and right side of Google Search results, the Google Shopping tab, Google Images, YouTube, and across Google Search Partner sites. Your products could show wherever users are actively browsing or comparing items. What is Google Merchant Center? Merchant Center Google Merchant Center (GMC) is a platform where retailers/ sellers upload and manage their product data, including titles, prices, images, and availability. It feeds this information into Google Shopping Ads and free listings, allowing Google to display accurate product details to shoppers.  Without GMC, Shopping campaigns cannot run because no product data is available for Google to match to search queries. Advantages of Shopping Campaigns Highly visual ads that show product images, prices, and titles, making them more appealing and clickable. Higher purchase intent, since ads appear when users actively search for specific products. No keyword management required—Google automatically matches your products to relevant searches. Better qualified traffic, as shoppers can compare products before clicking, reducing irrelevant clicks. Detailed product-level performance data for optimizing titles, images, prices, and feed attributes. Limitations of Shopping Campaigns Requires a well-optimized product feed, so poor titles, images, or data can limit visibility. Limited control over keywords, as you can’t target specific terms manually—Google decides when products appear. More competitive for popular items, where price differences strongly influence performance. Approval and disapproval issues from Google Merchant Center can delay or block products from running. Less suitable for non-ecommerce businesses, since Shopping ads are strictly product-based. Ideal Bidding Strategies for Shopping Campaigns Shopping campaigns support multiple bidding strategies, and the best choice depends on your campaign goals and account maturity. • Manual CPCGives you full control over your bids and is useful during the early testing phase. However, it requires more monitoring and does not leverage Google’s automated machine learning. • Maximize ClicksIdeal for new campaigns with limited data. Google automatically adjusts bids to get the most clicks possible within your budget, helping you build early traffic and learning signals. • Target ROAS (tROAS)Best for mature campaigns with stable conversion data. This strategy optimizes bids to achieve your desired return on ad spend, focusing on high-value conversions rather than just traffic volume. Metrics to Monitor One of the most important early indicators of performance is CTR (Click-Through Rate). A strong CTR shows that your product images, titles, and pricing are relevant and competitive in the auction. FAQs Shopping Campaign vs Search Campaign: Similarities Both Shopping and Search campaigns are triggered by user search queries. Your ads only appear when users actively search for products or information related to what you offer. Shopping Campaign vs Search Campaign: Differences Search Campaign Targeting is based on keywords you choose. Advertisers control which search terms trigger their ads. Ads appear as text-based results on Google Search. Shopping Campaign Targeting is based on your product data, including titles, descriptions, brand, GTIN, category, and pricing. Google matches your products to search queries automatically, without keyword targeting. Ads appear as visual product listings showing image, price, and product details. What is GTIN? GTIN (Global Trade Item Number) is a unique product identifier used worldwide to distinguish one product from another. Google Merchant Center uses GTINs to accurately match your items with shoppers’ searches and improve ad visibility. A valid GTIN helps Google understand exactly which product you’re selling. What is the Google Shopping Tab for? The Google Shopping Tab is a dedicated section where users can browse and compare products from various retailers. It showcases Shopping Ads and free product listings, helping shoppers find the best options based on price, features, and availability. It’s designed to give users a more complete product discovery experience than standard search results. Learning Phase for New Accounts If you’re running a new Shopping campaign, especially in a fresh Google Ads account, expect a learning phase of around 7–14 days.  During this period, Google gathers data to understand your products, audience behavior, and bidding patterns. It’s normal to see fluctuations in performance until the system stabilizes.

Google Ads Demand Gen Campaign: A Beginner’s Guide

Google Ads Demand Gen Campaign Google Ads Demand Gen (formerly Discovery Campaign) is Google’s newest campaign type, designed to help advertisers generate demand by reaching high-intent audiences across visually rich placements, including YouTube (Shorts, In-Stream & In-Feed), Discover, and Gmail. Demand Gen campaigns go beyond Discovery by offering: More ad placements (YouTube Shorts, in-stream, in-feed) Better creative formats (multiple videos, carousels, short-form video) Better audience tools (lookalikes, improved custom segments) More conversion-focused bidding options Enhanced AI optimization for performance and reach How Does a Demand Gen Campaign Work? Google Ads Demand Gen campaigns work by showing visually engaging ads—such as videos, carousels, and images – to people who are likely to be interested in your product, even before they start searching for it. Google uses its AI to analyze user behavior, interests, and past actions across YouTube, Discover, and Gmail. Based on these signals, your ads are shown to audiences who have a high chance of engaging or converting. Advertisers provide their creatives, set audience targeting, choose their bidding strategy (such as conversions or clicks), and Google optimizes delivery automatically to generate demand. Ad Placement: Where Do Demand Gen Ads Appear? Demand Gen ads appear across Google’s most visual and high-engagement surfaces: YouTube, YouTube Shorts, Discover, and Gmail. These placements allow your ads to reach people while they’re watching videos, browsing personalized content feeds, or checking promotional emails. Because the campaign uses rich formats, like videos, carousels, and image ads, your brand gets shown in environments designed for attention and discovery.  Advantages of Demand Gen Campaigns Highly visual placements on YouTube, Shorts, Discover, and Gmail AI-powered audience targeting using Google’s intent and interest signals Good for upper–mid funnel goals like awareness, engagement, and remarketing Lookalike audiences to reach people similar to your best customers Simple setup and optimization, with Google handling bidding and delivery Cross-channel reach in a single campaign (YouTube + Discover + Gmail) Limitations of Demand Gen Campaigns Not ideal for bottom-funnel intent compared to Search campaigns Performance relies heavily on creative quality (video, images, messaging) Less manual control over placements and targeting due to automation May require time to learn before stable results appear What to Prepare for a Demand Gen Campaign To launch a Demand Gen campaign, you’ll need a few key elements ready. First, prepare strong creatives, including short videos (6–15 seconds), image ads, and carousels—these visuals are crucial because Demand Gen relies heavily on attention-grabbing content. Next, define your audience targeting, such as custom segments, remarketing lists, or lookalike audiences based on your existing customers. You’ll also need a clear campaign objective, like website visits, engagement, or conversions, to guide Google’s bidding. Finally, make sure your landing page is optimized for speed and clarity, because even the best ads need a solid destination to convert well. Bidding Strategy: Demand Gen campaigns use automated bidding, which means Google’s AI adjusts your bids in real time to help you reach your goal. You can choose to optimize for conversions (like sign-ups or purchases), conversion value (total revenue), or clicks if you’re just starting to build traffic. For most advertisers, Google recommends using Maximize Conversions or Maximize Conversion Value, with the option to set a target CPA or target ROAS once enough data is collected. In a nutshell, we tell Google what matters most—clicks, conversions, or value—and the system automatically bids to get the best results within our budget. FAQs Demand Gen vs Display Demand Gen uses richer, more engaging creatives and AI-driven audience targeting across YouTube, Discover, and Gmail.  Display is broader, cheaper, and focuses mainly on banner placements across the web. Demand Gen is better for mid-funnel engagement, while Display is better for mass reach. Demand Gen vs Performance Max (PMax) PMax runs across all Google channels, including Search, Shopping, Maps, and YouTube, focusing heavily on bottom-funnel conversions. Demand Gen focuses on upper–mid funnel with visually rich placements on YouTube, Discover, and Gmail. Choose PMax for conversion scaling, and Demand Gen for driving interest and engagement. Demand Gen vs Video Campaign Demand Gen uses multiple creative formats: video, image, and carousel, across YouTube, Discover, and Gmail, targeting users with stronger intent signals. Video campaigns focus mainly on YouTube video placements and are ideal for pure awareness or views.  What is Google Discover? Google Discover is a personalized content feed on the Google app and mobile homepage that shows articles, videos, and updates based on a user’s interests.  Instead of searching, users simply scroll to discover content Google thinks they’ll like. It’s one of the main placements for Demand Gen ads.

Google Ads Performance Max (PMax) Campaign Explained

Google Ads Ep6 What is Performance Max (PMax) campaign? Performance Max (PMax) is a goal-based Google Ads campaign that uses automation to show your ads across all Google channels from one single campaign.  Instead of creating separate campaigns for Search, Display, YouTube, Discover, Maps, and Gmail, PMax combines everything and uses Google’s machine learning to find the best placements and audiences for your goals. For beginners, the simplest way to understand PMax is this: You give Google your goals, budget, creative assets, and audience signals, and the system automatically finds the people most likely to convert. It continuously tests different combinations of headlines, images, videos, placements, and audiences to improve performance over time. Performance Max is rather useful if you want more conversions, a broader reach, and automated optimization without manually managing multiple campaign types. However, because it’s highly automated, you get less control over specific keywords or placements — the system does most of the decision-making for you. How does Performance Max, PMax campaign work? Performance Max works by using Google’s AI to automatically find the best places and audiences for your ads across all Google channels.  You provide your goals, budget, and creative assets (texts, images, videos), then PMax tests different combinations and placements to see what drives the most conversions.  It uses real-time signals, like user behavior, search intent, and device, to decide when and where to show your ads. So basically, you set the direction, and PMax handles the targeting, bidding, and placement to get you the best possible results. Ad placement of PMax campaign (where your ads appear?) Performance Max ads can appear across all major Google channels because PMax combines multiple campaign types into one. Here’s where your ads may show: 1️⃣ Google Search Your text ads appear when users search for relevant queries, identical to standard Search campaigns. 2️⃣ YouTube Your assets can appear as video ads on YouTube: skippable, in-feed, and Shorts placements. 3️⃣ Display Network Your images and responsive display ads appear across millions of websites and apps, identical to Display Campaigns 4️⃣ Discover Feed Ads appear on the Google Discover feed inside the Google app and mobile homepage. 5️⃣ Gmail Promotional placements inside Gmail’s “Promotions” and “Social” tabs. 6️⃣ Google Maps Local ads and business promotions may appear when users search for places or directions (especially for PMax with store goals). 7️⃣ Shopping Placements For e-commerce, PMax also delivers Shopping Ads on: Google Search Shopping tab Image search YouTube search results Partner sites (if enabled) Performance Max pushes your ads anywhere Google has inventory, using automation to decide the best placements for conversions. Advantages of Performance Max All-in-one reach: Your ads appear across Search, Display, YouTube, Discover, Maps, Gmail, and Shopping. Automation: Google’s AI handles bidding, targeting, and placements for better conversions. Easy setup: One campaign covers multiple networks without needing separate campaign types. Better optimization: Machine learning utilizes real-time signals to continually enhance performance over time. Ideal for conversions: Works well when you have solid conversion tracking in place. Limitations of Performance Max Less control: You can’t control exact keywords, placements, or audiences in detail. Lower transparency: You don’t see full reports on which search terms or placements drive results. Needs good data: Works best when you have strong conversion tracking and enough volume. Creative-heavy: You must provide multiple assets (images, headlines, videos) for best performance. Pmax bidding strategies Performance Max uses two primary bidding strategies, both of which are focused on conversions. You can choose Maximize Conversions (with or without a target CPA) or Maximize Conversion Value (with or without a target ROAS). These bidding options let Google’s AI automatically adjust bids based on real-time signals, like user behavior, time of day, device, and intent, to get the best results for your goal. In simple terms: you tell Google whether you want more conversions or more value, and PMax optimizes bids across all channels to achieve that outcome. What assets are needed in a PMax campaign? A Performance Max (PMax) campaign requires a mix of creative assets so Google’s AI can build and test different ad combinations across Search, Display, YouTube, Discover, Maps, Gmail, and Shopping.  You’ll need headlines, long headlines, descriptions, images in various sizes, logos, and ideally at least one video (otherwise Google will auto-generate one).  You can also add audience signals, a final URL, extensions, and product feeds if you’re running eCommerce. These assets help PMax create responsive ads tailored to each placement and user intent. TLDR: What to prepare for a PMax campaign: A conversion-focused goal (sales, leads, store visits, etc.) Budget: A Daily or monthly budget is required Location: Set your target countries/regions Headlines & descriptions Images & logos Videos (optional but highly recommended) A clear landing page Conversion tracking  Audience Signals (Optional) FAQs What are audience signals? Audience signals are hints you give to Google to help Performance Max understand who your ideal customers are. They don’t limit your targeting, but they guide the algorithm’s starting point, so Google can learn faster and expand toward people who look similar or show strong conversion intent. Audience signals vs. audience targeting Audience targeting lets you directly choose who you want to show ads to, while audience signals simply guide Google’s algorithm on where to start. In Performance Max, signals are suggestions—not restrictions—so Google can still reach people outside your defined audiences if they’re likely to convert. What is a lookalike segment/ audience? A lookalike audience is a group of new users who share similar traits, behaviors, or interests with your existing customers. Google identifies these people using patterns found in your audience signals, helping you reach users who are more likely to convert even though they’ve never interacted with your brand before. About the channel performance report for Performance Max The channel performance report in Performance Max helps you understand how your PMax campaign performs across different Google channels. Although Google doesn’t show full detailed breakdowns, this report gives you high-level data for Search, Display, YouTube, Discover, Shopping, and more. It’s useful for

Google Ads Video Campaign Guide: For Effective YouTube Ads

Video Campaign (YouTube Ads) Google Ads Video Campaigns—most commonly known as YouTube Ads—are a form of online advertising that lets businesses promote videos to targeted audiences on YouTube and across Google’s video partner sites.  These ads allow advertisers to reach people based on their interests, behaviors, search intent, and demographics, making them one of the powerful tools for brand awareness, engagement, and conversions. With YouTube’s large user base and flexible targeting options, video campaigns give advertisers the ability to show relevant content to specific audiences at appropriate moments. This makes YouTube Ads a practical tool for sharing messages, demonstrating products, or building awareness through video. How Google Ads Video Campaigns (YouTube Ads) work 1️⃣Decide your campaign objective Pick a measurable goal. Common examples: Awareness — reach many people (brand lift, impressions). Consideration — get views, website visits, or leads. Conversions — drive signups, purchases, or app installs. The objective determines campaign settings, bidding options, and which metrics you’ll watch. 2️⃣ Choose the campaign type In Google Ads you’ll typically choose Video campaigns. Subtypes include: Skippable in-stream / sequence ads (good for reach + engagement) Non-skippable in-stream (short messages) Bumper ads (6s, high frequency) Outstream (mobile-only video on partner sites/app inventory) Video action (optimised for clicks/conversions) Pick the format that matches your objective and the length of your creative. 3️⃣ Set budget & bidding strategy Decide: Daily or campaign total budget Bidding type (depends on objective): CPV (cost-per-view), CPM (cost per 1,000 viewable impressions), or Target CPA / Maximize conversions for conversion-focused campaigns. You may start with a conservative daily budget while you test creatives and targeting. 4️⃣ Define your audience targeting You can target by: Demographics (age, gender, parental status) Interests / affinity audiences (people who like certain topics) Custom intent / custom segments (people searching or watching content related to keywords) In-market (actively researching products/services) Remarketing (people who previously visited your site or watched your videos) Placements & topics (specific channels or content categories) Beginner tip: start broad (interest + demographics) then refine with data. 5️⃣ Choose placements & exclusions Decide where your ads can appear: YouTube placements: home feed, watch page, search results, channel pages. Video partner sites & apps (GDN video inventory).Also, add exclusions for content you don’t want your ads beside (brand safety). 6️⃣ Create ad groups / segments Organise by theme: Separate ad groups by audience or creative type (e.g., one ad group for remarketing, one for cold audiences).This helps you compare performance and optimize. 7️⃣ Produce or prepare your creatives Make video assets to fit the chosen formats: Skippable in-stream: 15–60s recommended; include a strong 5–10s hook and clear call-to-action. Bumpers: 6 seconds, single strong idea. Thumbnails & headlines: create compelling thumbnails and text assets where applicable. Additionally, prepare destination URLs and final landing pages that align with the ad message. 8️⃣ Set up conversion tracking For measurement: Install Google Ads conversion tracking or link GA4 and import events. Track goals like form submits, purchases, signups, or view-through conversions. Without tracking, you won’t know if your ads produce real results. 9️⃣ Launch and let the campaign learn Once live: The learning phase begins (Google tests combinations). Give it about 1–2 weeks (or a set number of conversions) to stabilize before major changes. Don’t panic if performance fluctuates early — that’s normal while the system optimizes. 🔟 Monitor the right metrics Match metrics to your objective: Awareness: impressions, reach, vCPM, view rate. Consideration: views, view rate, clicks, CTR, watch time. Conversions: conversions, cost per conversion, ROAS, view-through conversions. Always check both engagement (view rate, watch time) and business outcomes (conversions, leads). ⏸️ Optimize based on data Steps: Pause low-performing creatives; keep the winners. Adjust bids and budgets toward top audiences/placements. Refine targeting (narrow or expand). Test different hooks, openings, and CTAs. Improve landing pages if clicks don’t convert. Use A/B tests (split tests) to compare variables one at a time. 1️⃣2️⃣ Scale or iterate When results are good: Increase the budget gradually on winning sets. Expand to similar audiences or additional placements.If results drop, revisit creatives and audience fit—more budget won’t fix a bad creative. All YouTube Video Ad Placements & Formats Explained Google Ads offers several Video Ad formats under a Video Campaign. Some appear in-stream (inside the YouTube player), while others appear out-stream (outside YouTube, on partner sites/apps). 1️⃣ Skippable In-Stream Ads (TrueView) Placement: Before, during, or after a YouTube video. Skippable after 5 seconds. How it works: Viewers can skip after 5 seconds. You pay only when: The viewer watches 30 seconds, Or watches the full video (if shorter than 30s), Or interacts (clicks your CTA). Bidding: CPV (Cost-per-view) tCPM / vCPM (if using awareness objectives) tCPA / Max Conversions (Video Action Campaigns) Ideal for: Remarketing Consideration campaigns Videos that are longer than 15 seconds When you want to pay only when people watch 2️⃣ Non-Skippable In-Stream Ads (15 seconds) Placement: Before, during, or after a YouTube video. How it works: Cannot be skipped. Must be 15 seconds (in some regions 20s). Bidding: tCPM: You pay per 1,000 impressions, not per view Ideal for: Brand campaigns Awareness Ensuring 100% message delivery Short, punchy messages Deliver your message fully in 15s 3️⃣ Bumper Ads (6 seconds) Placement: YouTube videos before content. How it works: A 6-second non-skippable format designed for high reach & recall. Bidding: tCPM: You pay per 1,000 impressions, not per view Ideal for: New brand launches New products Reinforcing messaging High-frequency short messaging Tell your story in 6s or less 4️⃣ In-Feed Video Ads (formerly Discovery Ads) Placement: YouTube Home feed YouTube Search results YouTube Watch Next / Suggested Videos sidebar How it works: These show as thumbnails with text, not as forced pre-roll ads. Viewer clicks to watch. 1) In-Feed Display (Image banner) 2) In-Feed Video Bidding: tCPA / Max Conversions CPV (depending on campaign type) Ideal for: Increasing views organically Users who intentionally choose your content Product demos, reviews, tutorials 5️⃣ YouTube Shorts Ads Placement: Inside the YouTube Shorts feed, displayed between vertical short videos. How it

Google Ads Display Campaign Guide: How Display Ads Work

Google Ads Ep4 Understanding Google’s Display Campaign A Google Ads Display Campaign allows your ads to appear across millions of websites, apps, and YouTube placements within the Google Display Network. Instead of relying on search queries, Display Ads reach people based on their interests, browsing behavior, demographics, or the content they’re viewing.  This makes it ideal for building brand awareness, staying top-of-mind with potential customers, and guiding users through the early and mid stages of the marketing funnel, even before they actively search for your product or service. How Google Display Ads Work? Google Display Ads work by showing your visual ads, such as images, videos, banners, animations, or responsive display ads, across websites, apps, and YouTube within the Google Display Network. Instead of waiting for someone to search for your product, Google uses audience signals, keywords, topics, and real-time intent data to find people who are most likely to be interested. You set your audience, budget, and goals, and Google’s system automatically matches your ads to high-relevance placements. This helps your brand reach users earlier in their journey, build awareness, and could re-engage past visitors through remarketing. Ad placement of Display campaign (where your ads appear?) Your Display Campaign ads can appear across the Google Display Network (GDN), which includes millions of websites, blogs, mobile apps, and YouTube placements partnered with Google. Ads may show as banner images, Responsive Display Ads, or rich media formats on pages related to your chosen topics, keywords, or audience interests. Depending on your targeting, your ads can appear on news sites, lifestyle blogs, e-commerce platforms, mobile games, Gmail, and even YouTube’s homepage or watch pages. In short, Display Ads follow your audience wherever they spend time online, not just on Google Search. What is GDN (Google Display Network) GDN (Google Display Network) is a massive advertising network made up of millions of websites, mobile apps, and YouTube placements where Google can show your display ads. Instead of relying on search intent, GDN helps you reach people as they browse online, reading news, watching videos, playing games, or exploring content related to their interests. It’s designed to help businesses build brand awareness, stay visible across the web, and reconnect with past visitors through remarketing. Advantages of Google Display Campaigns: 1. Massive Reach Across the Web Display campaigns let you reach users across millions of websites, apps, and YouTube placements. This helps increase brand visibility far beyond Google Search. 2. Great for Brand Awareness & Top-of-Funnel Goals Display Ads are ideal for introducing your brand, products, or promotions to new audiences who may not be actively searching yet. 3. Advanced Audience Targeting You can target people based on interests, demographics, in-market behavior, remarketing lists, custom audiences, and even website content. 4. Cost-Effective Compared to Search Ads Display clicks usually cost less than Search clicks, making it a budget-friendly way to build awareness or run remarketing campaigns. 5. Remarketing Capabilities You can re-engage users who have previously visited your website, interacted with your app, or taken specific actions—improving your conversion chances. 6. Visual Creatives (Images, Responsive Ads, Videos) Display ads use visuals that can increase brand recall and attract attention more effectively than text-only search ads. Limitations of Google Display Campaigns: 1. Lower Intent Compared to Search Ads Users aren’t actively searching for your product; they are just browsing. This means Display traffic often has lower conversion intent. 2. Possible Irrelevant Placements if Not Optimized Without proper targeting or placement exclusions, ads may appear on low-quality or unrelated websites, negatively impacting campaign performance. 3. Higher Chance of Accidental Clicks Because ads appear on apps and mobile sites, some clicks are accidental, which can reduce quality traffic and inflate costs. 4. Creative Quality Impacts Results Significantly Weak visual design or unclear messaging can hurt performance. Display campaigns rely heavily on strong creatives. 5. Performance Requires Time to Optimize Machine learning needs time to learn which audiences and placements convert. Early performance may fluctuate. When to use Display Campaign/ Display Ads Consider a Display Campaign when you want to reach people before they start searching, build brand awareness, or stay visible to potential customers as they browse websites, apps, and YouTube.  It’s useful for promoting new products, running remarketing campaigns to re-engage past visitors, and keeping your brand top-of-mind throughout the customer journey.  Display is ideal for top and mid-funnel marketing where visuals and broad reach can influence interest and consideration.  “The single biggest predictor of whether people will purchase is whether they’ve heard of you before.” – WordStream 6 Types of Targeting in Google Display Campaigns 1. Contextual Targeting Your ads appear on websites, apps, and YouTube pages that match your chosen topics, keywords, or specific placements, ensuring content relevance. 2. Audience Targeting Reach people based on who they are and what they’re interested in – such as affinity audiences, in-market audiences, demographics, life events, or custom audiences. 3. Remarketing (aka Retargeting) Show ads to users who’ve already interacted with your business, such as website visitors, app users, or YouTube viewers, helping bring them back to complete an action. 4. Automated Targeting / Optimized Targeting Google uses machine learning to expand your reach by finding additional people similar to your target audience who are likely to convert. 5. Location & Language Targeting Choose the countries, regions, or specific areas where your ads should appear, and select the languages your audience speaks. 6. Device Targeting Control which devices your ads appear on — such as mobile, desktop, tablets, or TV screens; based on where your audience is most active. FAQ(s) What the Google Search Network (GSN) is This includes ads shown on Google’s own search properties: for example, the main Google search engine results page, Google Image Search, Shopping, Google Maps, etc. It’s where users type queries and have the “search intent” of actively looking for something. Click here to further reading What the Google Search Partners Network is This is a subset within the search-type inventory: it includes other sites and apps (partnered with Google) that

Google Ads Glossary: Key Metrics & Bidding Strategies Defined

Google Ads Metrics Use this as your go-to dictionary for most essential Google Ads metrics! Understanding the key metrics behind your Google Ads campaign can make the difference. This comprehensive guide breaks down each metric in simple terms, helping you make smarter decisions to optimize your ad performance and drive results.  Whether you’re new to Google Ads or an experienced digital marketer, this Google Ads metrics dictionary will help you have a clear view of what every number means and how to leverage it for campaign success. Google Ads Ep10 General Google Ads Metrics: 1. Impression The number of times your ad was shown to users. Each time your ad appears on someone’s screen, it counts as an impression. 2. Clicks The number of times users clicked on your ad. This shows direct engagement with your ad. 3. CTR (Click-Through Rate) The percentage of users who clicked your ad out of those who saw it. It is calculated as (Clicks ÷ Impression) x 100. A high CTR generally indicates that your ad is relevant to your audience. 4. Cost The total amount spent on your ad campaign. It includes all costs for the clicks or impressions generated. 5. Avg Cost (Average Cost) The average amount spent per click or impression. This helps track costs over time without specific action details. 6. Conversions The number of desired actions taken by users after interacting with your ad (such as purchases, sign-ups, subscribes or downloads). 7. Conv Rate (Conversion Rate) The percentage of clicks that led to conversions. It’s calculated as (Conversion ÷ Clicks) x 100. A higher rate indicates a successful campaign. 8. Avg CPC (Average Cost Per Click) The average cost you pay for each click on your ad. Calculated as (Total Cost ÷ Total Clicks). Useful for budgeting and cost management. 9. Avg Target CPA (Cost Per Acquisition) The average cost you’re willing to pay per conversion. Google aims to keep your cost per conversion at or below this target. 10. Quality Score A measure of the quality and relevance of your ad, keywords, and landing page. Higher scores can lower your ad costs and improve ad positions. 11. Ad Strength An indicator of how effective your ad is in delivering relevant content to users. It’s based on the variety and relevance of the ad assets used (headlines, descriptions, images). What’s the difference between Quality Score and Ad Strength ? Quality Score vs Ad Strength Quality Score: This is a metric that rates the relevance and quality of your keywords, ad text, and landing page for a specific keyword. It’s primarily used to determine your ad’s eligibility and rank in the auction. A higher Quality Score can lower your costs and improve your ad’s position. Ad Strength: This metric focuses on the effectiveness and variety of your ad assets (like headlines, descriptions, and images) specifically for responsive ads. It gives feedback on how well your ad elements are likely to engage your audience, guiding you to improve creativity and relevance. In short: Quality Score helps with ad ranking based on relevance, while Ad Strength evaluates the variety and engagement potential of your ad content. Quality Score: This is a metric that rates the relevance and quality of your keywords, ad text, and landing page for a specific keyword. It’s primarily used to determine your ad’s eligibility and rank in the auction. A higher Quality Score can lower your costs and improve your ad’s position. Ad Strength: This metric focuses on the effectiveness and variety of your ad assets (like headlines, descriptions, and images) specifically for responsive ads. It gives feedback on how well your ad elements are likely to engage your audience, guiding you to improve creativity and relevance. In short: Quality Score helps with ad ranking based on relevance, while Ad Strength evaluates the variety and engagement potential of your ad content. 12. Interaction The number of times users engage with your ad, like clicks for text ads or views for video ads. 13. Interaction Rate The percentage of interactions per impression. Calculated as (Interactions ÷ Impressions) x 100. A higher rate indicates stronger engagement. 14. Max CPC (Maximum Cost Per Click) The highest amount you’re willing to pay for a click on your ad. Google will never exceed this amount per click. 15. Avg CPM (Cost Per Thousand Impressions) The average cost you pay per 1,000 impressions of your ad. Commonly used in Display and Video campaigns. 16. Viewable CTR (Click-Through Rate for Viewable Impressions) Measures the click-through rate of ads only when they’re actually viewable by users (50% of the ad on screen for one second or more). Video Campaign-Specific Metrics 1. View The total number of times users watched or interacted with your video ad. For In-stream ads, a “view” typically means watching at least 30 seconds or engaging with the video. 2. View Rate (In-stream, In-feed, Shorts) The percentage of views compared to impressions. In-stream ads: Ads that play before or during YouTube videos. A view is counted if watched for 30 seconds or more, or if the user interacts with it. In-feed ads: These ads appear in YouTube’s feed, like search results or the homepage. The view rate is based on how often users choose to watch your ad. Shorts ads: Ads that appear in YouTube Shorts, the view rate is the percentage of views from users swiping up to watch the ad in full-screen. 3. Avg CPV (Average Cost Per View) The average cost you pay per video view. It’s calculated by dividing the total cost by the number of views. 4. Earned Likes The additional likes on your YouTube videos that happen after a user views your ad. It helps track user interest in your content. 5. Earned Subscribers The number of new subscribers gained from users who watched your ad. This metric is valuable for building a loyal audience. 6. Watch Time The total time users spend watching your video ad, in seconds. Longer watch times can indicate stronger viewer interest. 7. Avg

Google Ads Search Campaign Guide: How It Works

Google Ads Ep3 Understanding Google’s Search Campaign Picture someone typing “best running shoes” into Google. At the top of the results, they may see a small text ad labeled “Sponsored.” It often matches what they’re searching for. That’s a Google Search Ad. In simple terms, Google Search Ads are paid text ads that appear on Google’s search results whenever people look for something specific. They work based on 3 core elements: 1) Keywords (what people search for) 2) Ad copy (what you show them) 3) Bidding (how much you’re willing to pay per click) Search ads are driven by user intent. The person is already looking for something, and you’re placing your offer right in the moment they need it. How Google Search Ads Work? Think of Google Search Ads like a real-time auction that happens every time someone hits Enter on a search. 1️⃣ A user searches for something Google scans all advertisers bidding on that keyword. 2️⃣ A real-time auction occurs Google evaluates: Your bid Ad relevance Landing page user experience Expected click-through rate (CTR) These factors together form your Ad Rank 3️⃣ Google decides which ads show A higher Ad Rank means your ad appears above competitors, even if their bids are higher. Google rewards quality, not just big budgets. 4️⃣ You pay only when someone clicks This is PPC (pay-per-click). Impressions are free; you pay only when a click is generated. A small advertiser with a highly relevant, useful ad can outrank someone paying more. Google values quality and relevance over just the highest bid. Ad placement of Search campaign (where your ads appear?) Search campaign ads appear mainly on Google search results pages (SERP), right above or below the organic results when someone searches for a relevant query.  If enabled, ads can also appear on Google Search Partner sites, which include other websites and apps that use Google’s search technology. Who should consider Google Search Campaign? Search ads shine when people are already looking for what you offer. That means they work best for businesses with clear, active demand. Service providers E.g., Plumbers, lawyers, dentists, repair technicians, consultants.(Users may search for something “near me,” “best,” “emergency,” etc.) Ecommerce stores Especially when selling products, people often search for(e.g., electronics, supplements, home appliances, sports equipment, or apparel) B2B businesses Software tools, enterprise solutions, SaaS with niche keywords. Local businesses Gyms, tuition centers, real estate agents, and clinics Lead generation businesses Insurance, property launches, education programs, and financial services May not ideal for: • Businesses selling something totally new (no one searches for it yet)• Products that rely more on visuals or impulse (better on YouTube/ Meta) Advantages of Google Search Ads 1. High-intent traffic People search because they already need something. You show up at the exact moment they’re ready to act, which could boost conversion rates. 2. Immediate visibility No need to wait months like SEO. Search ads put you on page one instantly as long as your Ad Rank is strong. 3. Full control over budget You can start with any amount. Set daily budgets, adjust bids, pause anytime. No forced minimums. 4. Pay only for results You only pay when someone clicks your ad (PPC). Impressions are free. 5. Precise keyword targeting You decide exactly which searches (keywords) you want to appear for. This keeps your traffic focused and relevant. 6. Measurable Performance is trackable: clicks, conversions, cost per lead, ROAS. You can optimize with data, not merely guesswork. 7. Works for almost any industry Service businesses, ecommerce, B2B, local shops, SaaS, education, real estate. If people search for it, you can advertise it. 8. Quality over budget Google rewards relevance. A smaller advertiser with better ads and a better landing page can outrank bigger budgets. Limitations of Google Search Ads 1. Can be expensive in competitive industries Insurance, loans, legal, finance, and some B2B keywords can cost a lot per click. 2. Requires ongoing optimization Search campaigns aren’t “set and forget.” You need to adjust: • keywords• negative keywords• bids• ad copy• landing pages Those who don’t optimize usually waste money. 3. Not ideal for products with low search demand (Search Volume) If people don’t know your product exists, there won’t be many relevant keywords or searches. In that case, it’s better to use channels like Video campaigns, Demand Gen, Display, or Performance Max to create awareness and generate demand. 4. Limited creative space Search campaign – Text ads are short and plain. No fancy images or videos. Harder to stand out compared to visual platforms. 5. Clicks don’t guarantee conversions If the landing page is weak or the offer isn’t appealing, you pay for clicks that don’t turn into leads or sales. 6. Steeper learning curve for beginners Even though the interface may look simple, the system is complex. Smart Bidding, match types, Quality Score, ad extensions… Beginners often make common mistakes like: • bidding too broad • allowing irrelevant queries • not using negative keywords 7. Competitors can click your ads Google has systems to detect and filter invalid clicks, but competitor clicking can still happen at some level and may waste part of your budget. Keyword match types Image Credit: Semrush 1. Broad Match Broad match shows your ads for searches related to your keyword, including synonyms, variations, and intent-based queries. Example Keyword: running shoes Your ad may show for: “best sneakers for jogging”; “marathon footwear”; “sports shoe shop near me” When to use broad match • When using Smart Bidding (target CPA or target ROAS) • When you want scale, discovery, or broader reach • When you have enough conversion data for Google to optimize properly • When your advertising budget is sufficient 2. Phrase Match Phrase match shows your ad for searches that include the meaning of your phrase, with some flexibility in word order, but still more controlled than broad. Example Keyword: running shoes Your ad may show for: “best running shoes for men”; “cheap running shoes online”But usually will not appear for: “sports sneakers for

7 Types of Google Ads Campaign

Understanding Google Ads Google Ads Ep2 Google Ads is an online advertising platform developed by Google where advertisers pay to display brief advertisements, service offerings, product listings, or videos to web users. It allows businesses to promote their products and services across Google’s vast network, including the search engine, YouTube, Mobile Apps, and other partner websites. Through Google Ads, businesses can target specific demographics and audiences based on keywords, location, interests, and other relevant factors. It’s a flexible platform, offering a variety of campaign types that suit different business objectives, whether for brand awareness, website traffic, or direct sales. Key Takeaways: Google Ads operates on a pay-per-click (PPC) model, meaning advertisers pay only when someone clicks their ad. Advertisers have the ability to control their budget, audience targeting, and ad placements, ensuring ads reach the right people at the right time. Why use Google Ads Google Ads is suitable for almost all businesses, from small startups to large corporations, because it offers scalable options that can grow with your business. Businesses with specific goals like increasing brand awareness, generating leads, boosting sales, or promoting a mobile app can use Google Ads to target the right audience. Type of Businesses Should Use Google Ads Businesses that should consider Google Ads: E-commerce: Google Shopping campaigns and Performance Max are ideal for driving product sales. Service Providers: Search and Display campaigns work well for businesses offering services like home repairs, legal consultation, etc. Mobile App Developers: App campaigns are perfect for increasing app downloads and engagement. Content Creators & Publishers: Video and Display campaigns are effective for building brand awareness. Local Businesses: Google Ads allows precise location targeting, ideal for businesses that rely on a local customer base. When to Run Google Ads When we have clear marketing goals, a well-defined target audience, and a sufficient budget to test different campaign types, here are some strategic considerations for when to run Google Ads: Launching a new product or service: Use ads to drive initial awareness. During peak sales seasons: For example, Black Friday, Christmas, or other key retail seasons. To improve slow sales or website traffic: Running ads can boost engagement during low-traffic periods. When optimizing for search engine results isn’t enough: Paid campaigns can give an instant traffic boost while waiting for SEO to show results. The 7 Types of Google Ads Campaigns Google regularly updates its campaign types to enhance performance and stay current with evolving advertising trends. For example, Smart Campaigns and Local Campaigns were merged into Performance Max, while Discovery was rebranded as Demand Gen. These changes give advertisers access to stronger automation and broader reach across Google’s platforms. Here are the current 7 main campaign types available in Malaysia: Campaign types available in Malaysia (2025) Search Campaign A Search campaign allows your ads to appear in Google’s search results (SERP) when users type in relevant keywords.. These ads target users actively searching for specific keywords that relate to your product or service. Suitable for: Businesses that want to drive conversions (like e-commerce, service providers) or generate leads (like legal services or education). What to prepare: Keyword research: Choose high-intent keywords that match user queries. Compelling ad copy: Your ad text should directly address the user’s search intent. Landing page: Ensure the landing page matches the ad content for better user experience and conversions. Performance Max (PMax) Campaign A Performance Max campaign uses Google’s machine learning to deliver ads across all of Google’s inventory, including Search, Display, YouTube, Discover, Gmail, and Maps. Suitable for: Businesses looking for an all-in-one solution, businesses looking to reach a wide audience across Google’s full inventory, as it optimizes ad delivery based on your conversion goals (lead generation). What to prepare: Creative assets: Have a variety of images, headlines, or videos. Clear goals: Choose a conversion objective for Google’s AI to optimize towards. Conversion tracking: Set up to ensure the algorithm learns from real data. Display Campaign Display campaigns use visual banners and image ads across Google’s Display Network, which includes millions of websites, apps, and videos. Suitable for: Businesses aiming for brand awareness or remarketing to people who have previously interacted with their site. What to prepare: High-quality visuals: Engaging images that capture attention. Targeting settings: Decide whether you want to target users by demographic, interests, or remarketing lists. Compelling offers: Highlight promotions, discounts, or events. Shopping Campaign Shopping campaigns showcase your products directly in the search results. They include an image of your product, price, product information and store name to help users make quick purchasing decisions. Suitable for: E-commerce businesses selling physical products. It’s particularly useful for retailers and online stores. What to prepare: Product feed: Set up a Google Merchant Center account and upload your product data. Clear images: High-quality product photos that make your listings stand out. Competitive pricing: Ensure your prices are competitive to attract clicks. Video Campaign Video campaigns let you advertise through video content on YouTube and across Google’s video partner sites. Video ads appear on YouTube and other video partner sites. These can be skippable or non-skippable and are great for building brand awareness or driving conversions. Suitable for: Businesses looking to create brand awareness, promote a product, or tell a story visually. Ideal for content creators, lifestyle brands, and entertainment industries. What to prepare: Engaging video content: Short, attention-grabbing videos (6 seconds for bumper ads, 15-30 seconds for skippable ads). Target audience: Utilize demographic, interest-based, or remarketing targeting to reach the right viewers. Demand Gen Campaign This newer campaign type is designed to generate demand by using rich media and video ads, targeting users across Google’s ecosystem who are more likely to be interested in your product based on behavioral signals.  Suitable for: B2B and B2C businesses looking to build awareness and demand for new products or services. What to prepare: High-quality content: Create visually appealing ads and videos to attract users. Audience strategy: Leverage Google’s audience insights to target users likely to be interested in your offering. Follow-up strategy: Have a plan for

Google Ads Encyclopedia: Key Terms Explained for Beginners

Google Ads Ep1 What’s Google Ads? Google Ads is Google’s online advertising platform that allows businesses to display ads across Google Search, YouTube, and millions of partner websites. It operates on a pay-per-click (PPC) model, where advertisers bid on keywords to show their ads to users who are actively searching for related products or services.  With Google Ads, marketers can reach targeted audiences, control their budgets, and measure results in real time. Google Ads Media Platforms (Ad Placements): Google Ads allows advertisers to place their ads across several major Google-owned and partner platforms, including: Google Search – Text ads appearing above or below organic search results. YouTube – Video and display ads shown before, during, or beside videos. Google Display Network (GDN) – Visual ads appearing on millions of partner websites and apps. Google Play Store – Ads promoting apps or games within the Play Store interface. Gmail – Interactive ads that appear in the Promotions or Social tab of a user’s inbox. Discover Feed – Visual, personalized ads appearing on Google Discover and the YouTube home feed. Tools Involved in Google Advertising: Google Ads – The main platform to create, manage, and optimize campaigns. Google Ad Manager – Used for publishers to manage ad inventory and direct deals (mostly on the supply side, not advertisers). Google Analytics 4 (GA4) – Tracks user behavior and conversions to measure ad performance. Google Tag Manager (GTM) (optional) – Simplifies adding and managing tracking codes (tags) without editing website code. Google Merchant Center (optional) – Primarily for e-commerce, manages product feeds for Shopping Ads Campaign. Looker Studio (formerly Data Studio) (optional) – For building custom ad and performance dashboards. Google Ads vs Google Ad Manager: What’s the Difference? Although their names sound similar, Google Ads and Google Ad Manager serve different purposes within the advertising ecosystem. Google Ads is designed for advertisers — businesses and marketers who want to promote their products or services through paid campaigns across Google’s platforms (Search, YouTube, Display, etc.). Google Ad Manager, on the other hand, is built for publishers — website owners or app developers who want to monetize their ad inventory by selling ad space to advertisers. It helps them manage direct deals, optimize revenue, and deliver ads from multiple demand sources (including Google Ads and third-party networks). In short, Google Ads is for buying ads, while Google Ad Manager is for selling and managing ad inventory. Advantages of Google Ads Google Ads offers powerful targeting and flexibility, allowing advertisers to reach potential customers exactly when they’re searching for related products or services.  You can control your budget, bidding, and audience, while real-time data helps optimize performance quickly.  With various ad formats — from Search to YouTube — it supports brand awareness, lead generation, and direct sales across Google’s vast network. Limitations of Google Ads However, Google Ads can be competitive and costly, especially in industries with high keyword demand. It requires continuous monitoring and optimization to maintain good results.  Poorly managed campaigns can waste budget quickly, and beginners may find the learning curve steep due to the platform’s complexity and constant updates. Part II Campaign Types 7 main types of Google Ads Campaigns (2025) Campaign types available in Malaysia (2025) As of 2025, there are 7 main types of Google Ads campaign types (though Google sometimes rebrands or merges them) 1. Search Campaigns Text-based ads that appear on Google Search results when users search for specific keywords. Best for capturing high-intent traffic. 2. Display Campaigns Visual or banner ads that appear across the Google Display Network (GDN) — millions of websites, apps, and YouTube. Ideal for brand awareness and retargeting. 3. Video Campaigns Ads shown on YouTube and partner sites in video format (skippable, non-skippable, bumper, etc.). Great for storytelling and visual engagement. 4. Shopping Campaigns Product-based ads featuring images, prices, and merchant info. Used mainly for eCommerce, managed through Google Merchant Center. 5. App Campaigns Designed to promote mobile apps across Google Search, Play Store, YouTube, and the Display Network. Google automates targeting and creatives using app store assets. 6. Performance Max Campaigns (PMax) An all-in-one campaign type that automatically runs ads across all Google networks — Search, Display, YouTube, Discover, Gmail, and Maps — using AI to optimize performance. 🛈 Note: Local Campaigns have been merged into Performance Max. They were previously used to promote physical store visits via Google Maps, Search, and YouTube. You may still find them in legacy accounts or historical reports. 7. Demand Gen Campaigns (formerly Discovery Campaigns) Demand Gen Campaigns use AI-powered creatives to reach visually engaged audiences across YouTube, Discover, and Gmail. They’re ideal for building brand awareness, nurturing interest, and driving conversions through rich visual storytelling. 🛈 Note: Demand Gen Campaigns replaced Discovery Campaigns in 2023 as part of Google’s shift toward AI-driven, visually immersive advertising. Existing Discovery campaigns were automatically upgraded to Demand Gen for improved audience targeting and creative optimization. Smart Campaigns (replaced by Performance Max) Simplified, automated campaigns designed for small businesses that want an easy way to advertise on Google. While still available in some legacy or regional accounts, Google now recommends using Performance Max, which offers similar simplicity with smarter automation and broader reach. 7 main Google Ads campaign types as of Nov 2025: No. Campaign Type Main Objective Key Placements 1 Search Capture intent-driven traffic Google Search results 2 Display Brand awareness, remarketing Display Network (websites, apps) 3 Video Storytelling, reach YouTube, partner sites 4 Shopping eCommerce sales Search, Shopping tab 5 App App installs and engagement Play Store, YouTube, GDN 6 Performance Max All-in-one, AI optimization Across all Google channels 7 Demand Gen Visual engagement, discovery YouTube, Discover, Gmail Part III Campaign Objective Google Ads Campaign Objectives (2025) When you start a new campaign in Google Ads, you’ll first need to choose an objective. Your selected objective helps Google customize the settings, recommendations, and available campaign types to match your business goal. Below are the six main objectives (plus one manual option) available in the current Google Ads interface: Campaign Objectives

Top 10 Instant Messaging and Social Communication Platforms in 2025

Foreword: Instant messaging apps and social communication platforms have become the heartbeat of online interaction. From personal chats and group discussions to voice calls, video meetings, and community spaces — these platforms keep billions of users connected in real time.  But not all messaging apps are created equal. Some focus on privacy, others on entertainment, and a few have evolved into “super apps” offering everything from payments to e-commerce. What Are Instant Messaging Apps and Social Communication Platforms? Instant messaging apps are online tools that let users send and receive messages, photos, videos, or voice notes instantly over the internet — examples include WhatsApp, Telegram, and Messenger. Social communication platforms go a step further — they combine messaging with social networking features such as stories, communities, voice channels, or payment systems. Apps like WeChat, LINE, and Discord fall into this category, creating a space where people can chat, share, and connect beyond simple texting. In this article, we’ll explore the Top 10 Instant Messaging and Social Communication Platforms shaping the way the world communicates in 2025.  You’ll discover how each platform stands out based on its global market share, app type, main regions served, unique key features, and headquarters location. Whether you’re a casual user, marketer, or tech enthusiast, this guide will help you understand which chat apps dominate — and why. Criteria for Ranking: Each platform on this list is evaluated based on five key factors: global user base, which reflects its popularity and reach; privacy and security, ensuring user trust; core features, including messaging, calls, and social tools; ecosystem strength, such as integrations or in-app services; and regional influence, highlighting where each app dominates or leads in innovation. 1. WhatsApp Owned by Meta Platforms, WhatsApp is the world’s most popular instant messaging app, connecting over 2 billion users across more than 180 countries. It’s known for its end-to-end encryption, ensuring private and secure communication between users. WhatsApp supports text messages, voice and video calls, file sharing, and group chats, all through a simple and ad-free interface. The platform also offers WhatsApp Business, allowing brands to connect directly with customers, making it a vital tool for both personal and professional communication. Type: Instant Messaging App Main Regions Served: Global (especially Asia, Europe, Latin America) Unique Key Features: End-to-end encryption, WhatsApp Business, Status updates Headquarters: Menlo Park, California, USA 2. WeChat (微信) Developed by Tencent, WeChat is more than just a messaging app — it’s a super app that integrates communication, social media, payment, and digital services all in one ecosystem. With over 1.3 billion monthly active users, it dominates China’s digital landscape and serves as an essential everyday tool for messaging, mobile payments (WeChat Pay), shopping, gaming, and even government services. Users can chat, share Moments (similar to social posts), and access Mini Programs — lightweight apps within WeChat for everything from food delivery to banking. Type: Super App / Social Communication Platform Main Regions Served: China, Southeast Asia, global Chinese communities Unique Key Features: WeChat Pay, Moments, Mini Programs, Official Accounts Headquarters: Shenzhen, China 3. Snapchat Created by Snap Inc., Snapchat revolutionized online communication with its concept of disappearing messages and stories. Popular among Gen Z and millennials, the app focuses on visual communication through photos, short videos (Snaps), filters, lenses, and Bitmoji avatars. Beyond casual chatting, Snapchat has evolved into a comprehensive social platform, featuring Stories, Spotlight (a short-form video discovery feature), and AR experiences that seamlessly blend fun with creativity. Type: Social Communication Platform / Multimedia Messaging App Main Regions Served: North America, Europe, Middle East Unique Key Features: Disappearing messages, AR filters, Stories, Bitmoji integration Headquarters: Santa Monica, California, USA 4. Telegram Founded by Pavel Durov in 2013, Telegram has established a strong reputation as a privacy-focused, cloud-based messaging app. It offers fast, secure, and ad-free communication across devices, attracting over 900 million active users worldwide. Telegram stands out for its large group chats (up to 200,000 members), broadcast channels, and powerful bots for automation and communities. It’s also loved by creators and tech-savvy users for its open API, allowing endless customization and integrations. Type: Instant Messaging App / Privacy-Focused Platform Main Regions Served: Global (strong in Asia, Europe, the Middle East) Unique Key Features: Cloud sync, large groups, channels, bots, secret chats Headquarters: Dubai, United Arab Emirates 5. Messenger Originally part of Facebook, Messenger has evolved into a standalone messaging platform developed by Meta Platforms. With over 1 billion users, it integrates seamlessly with Facebook and Instagram, allowing users to chat, make voice and video calls, and share media across Meta’s ecosystem.  Messenger also supports chatbots, business messaging, and cross-platform communication, making it one of the most versatile tools for both personal and professional use. Type: Instant Messaging & Social Communication Platform Main Regions Served: Global (especially North America, Southeast Asia, Europe) Unique Key Features: Facebook & Instagram integration, chatbots, reactions, video calls Headquarters: Menlo Park, California, USA 6. LINE Developed by LINE Corporation, LINE started as a simple messaging app and has grown into one of Asia’s leading super apps. With over 180 million active users, it dominates markets like Japan, Thailand, and Taiwan. Beyond chatting, LINE offers voice and video calls, a social timeline, stickers, LINE Pay for cashless payments, and even access to games and official brand accounts — making it both fun and functional for daily communication and lifestyle. Type: Super App / Social Communication Platform Main Regions Served: Japan, Taiwan, Thailand, Indonesia Unique Key Features: Stickers, LINE Pay, Timeline, Games, Official Accounts Headquarters: Tokyo, Japan 7. Discord Originally built for gamers, Discord has evolved into one of the most popular community-based social communication platforms. With over 500 million registered users, it enables people to connect through servers — dedicated spaces for text, voice, and video chats.  Users can join communities centered on gaming, education, hobbies, or work collaboration. Discord’s strength lies in its real-time voice channels, screen sharing, and role-based moderation tools, making it ideal for both casual hangouts and professional communities. Type: Social Communication & Community Platform Main Regions Served: Global (especially North America, Europe, and gaming communities

Empower Yourself: Self-Defense and Security Tips for Women

Foreword: Recent Tragedies That Shocked Malaysia Recent tragedies in Malaysia (2025) — from the bullying-related death of 13-year-old Zara at a religious boarding school in Sabah, to the gang rape of a Form Three girl by four older students at a government school in Alor Gajah, Melaka, and the fatal stabbing of a 16-year-old student by her 14-year-old schoolmate in Bandar Utama, Petaling Jaya — remind us that violence can strike anywhere, even within the walls of our schools. As I read about these cases, I felt deeply saddened and angry; Saddened for the innocent lives lost, and angry that such brutality could happen to young girls in places meant to keep them safe. Each victim was a daughter, a student, and a friend who deserved protection and care. These horrifying incidents highlight the urgent need for self-defence awareness, personal security education, and stronger protection systems for women and students across Malaysia. Self-defense & security tips In this article, I’ll be sharing some security tips, safety tools, and equipment, along with additional insights from my experience as a former Auxiliary Police Officer. This could be handy in dangerous situations, especially for those who are physically smaller or less able to defend themselves. 1. Pick up and practice a fighting skill, self-defence tactic Pick up a fighting skill or practical self-defence tactic Image Source: istockphoto Generally, women tend to be physically weaker than men in strength, size, and aggression. The goal of learning practical fighting or combat skills is to close that gap and — just as important — to be mentally prepared to respond or retaliate under stress. There’s a clear difference between someone who has trained in combat skills and someone who hasn’t. Practical fighting/ combat skills: Here are 5 practical fighting styles/self-defence combat skills: (Recommended by ChatGPT, you can use a similar prompt: “Suggest me 5 practical fighting and combat skills for women“) Muay Thai — Excellent for powerful, practical striking (elbows, knees, clinch) and building confidence. Kickboxing — Great for striking, footwork and conditioning; easy to learn basics fast. Judo — Focuses on throws, balance breaks and safe takedown/escape techniques (useful if attackers grab you). Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) — Teaches ground control and escapes — crucial if a fight goes to the ground. Krav Maga — Reality-based self-defence with simple, aggressive techniques and situational training for real attacks. Quick tip: Striking arts (Muay Thai, Kickboxing) are best if you want stand-up power and quick disabling strikes. Grappling arts (Judo, BJJ) are vital if you might be grabbed or taken to the ground. Krav Maga blends both with an emphasis on fast, practical escapes. 2. Use Pepper spray/ chili spray Pepper spray/ chili spray HK Police Officer with Pepper Spray Image source: Police.gov.hk  Pepper spray/ chilli spray — a compact aerosol canister that ejects capsaicin-based irritant to temporarily disable an attacker by causing intense eye pain, tearing, coughing, and breathing difficulty. It’s designed to create a window to escape, not to injure permanently. Quick usage & safety tips: Aim for the attacker’s face/eyes, then run to safety — don’t try to “fight” after spraying. Keep it accessible (bag pocket, belt holster) and practice unlocking/deploying the canister so you can use it quickly. Check expiry dates and test sprays per manufacturer instructions; store away from heat. After use, call police and seek help — spraying can lead to legal or medical follow-up. Legal note (Malaysia): Pepper spray is regulated — many civilians carry small canisters for self-defence, but import/sale can require permits, and misuse can lead to criminal charges. Buy from reputable local sellers and keep proof of purchase; don’t bring it on flights. AOJP framework: As a former Auxiliary Police Officer, here are guidelines officers use to assess whether the use of force — including discharge of a firearm — is justifiable under the AOJP framework: Ability: Does the suspect have the physical means or weapon to cause the threatened harm? Opportunity: Is the suspect close enough and positioned to carry out the threat right now? Jeopardy: Is there an immediate risk of serious injury or death? Preclusion: Have all reasonable, less-lethal options been tried or ruled out? (This principle mainly applies to law enforcement officers who are equipped with both lethal weapons, such as firearms, and non-lethal options, such as tasers.) Spray or not, (likewise shoot or not shoot scenario). When deciding whether to use pepper spray, assess whether the situation satisfies the AOJ tests: the suspect’s Ability to cause harm, their Opportunity to carry out the harm, and the Jeopardy (immediacy/severity of the threat). The use of pepper spray is justifiable when the AOJ is met. 3. Use Emergency Personal Alarm/ Portable Safety Alarm Emergency Personal Alarm/ Portable Safety Alarm Wide range of personal safety alarm Back in the old days, people used whistles in distress situations to call for help, especially at night. Today, there are many emergency personal alarms or personal safety alarms that serve the same purpose — using a high-frequency, loud sound to attract attention, call for help, and frighten the assailant. These devices are usually battery-powered or rechargeable, and should be loud enough to startle the attacker and immediately alert people nearby to assist you. Electronic distraction device Just for sharing a new security product I’ve recently found: The Nextorch ND30 is a compact, non-pyrotechnic electronic distraction device (a civilian “electronic flash-bang” alternative) that combines an ultra-bright strobe and a very loud siren to temporarily disorient a threat and attract attention; it’s USB-rechargeable, ruggedly built, and designed to create a short window for escape — but check local laws before buying or carrying one.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NTN6w67EQ0M 4. Use your surrounding equipment as a self-defense weapon Surrounding equipment as self-defense tools Use items around you as improvised self-defence tools — for example, an umbrella, a high-heeled shoe, a heavy torch, a steering lock in your car, a wrench or spanner, or even a plastic/foldable chair. Use these everyday objects to create an opportunity to escape; ensure your response is proportionate and lawful. Seondary

Keto-Friendly Ranking: Roti Canai, Tosai, Chapati & Naan

Foreword: Vanakkam, Dei~ In this article, we’ll delve into our Malaysian Indian Muslim (Mamak) cuisine. The terms and context here are based on Malaysian Mamak restaurants, not those in India. I’ll be comparing common staple foods found in almost every Indian Mamak restaurant in Malaysia, mainly in terms of their keto-friendliness. Roti Canai, Tosai, Naan & More: Which Indian Breads Are Keto-Friendly? The participants in this comparison are Roti Canai (or Roti Prata, as it’s more commonly known in Singapore), Chapati, Tosai (Dosa), Roti Naan, Idli, Masala Vada, and Putu Mayam. Before that, let’s grasp a basic understanding of what ‘keto-friendly’ and the ketogenic diet mean. Define Keto-friendly A keto-friendly food is low in carbohydrates and high in healthy fats, with a moderate amount of protein. The idea is to keep your body in a state called ketosis, where it burns fat for energy instead of carbs or glucose. What Is the Ketogenic Diet? The ketogenic diet, or keto diet, is a low-carb, high-fat eating plan. When you cut down on carbs — like rice, bread, or sugar — your body starts using fat as its main fuel source. This helps some people with weight management, blood sugar control, and mental focus. Let’s get started: Roti Canai (Paratha bread) Roti Canai — or Roti Prata as our Singaporean neighbours call it — is the most popular Mamak staple. You’ll find it on almost every table, served crispy on the outside, soft and flaky inside. Over the years, it’s evolved into a variety of “flavours” or creative versions: Roti Telur, Roti Planta, Roti Sardin, Roti Milo, Roti Pisang, Roti Banjir, Roti Tissue, Roti Bom, and even Roti Nutella. But for this comparison, we’ll stick to the OG — the classic Roti Canai Kosong (plain original version). Main Ingredients: Wheat flour (usually all-purpose flour) Water Ghee or oil A bit of salt and sugar Sometimes condensed milk (to make it softer and richer) Quick Note:Because Roti Canai is made primarily from wheat flour, it’s high in carbohydrates, making it not keto-friendly. However, the use of ghee gives it a small touch of healthy fat — not enough to offset the carb load though. Tosai (or Dosa) Tosai — or Dosa as it’s called in India — is another Mamak favourite that often appears alongside chutney, dhal, or spicy sambal. It’s thin, slightly crisp on the edges, and has a soft, tangy center.  You’ll spot variations like Tosai Telur, Tosai Masala, Tosai Ghee, or even Tosai Rava. But for this comparison, let’s focus on the classic Plain Tosai — the humble yet iconic breakfast pick. Main Ingredients: Fermented rice (usually parboiled rice) Urad dal (black gram lentils) Water A bit of salt Sometimes a pinch of fenugreek seeds (for flavour and fermentation) Quick Note:Tosai might feel lighter than Roti Canai, but it’s still carb-based, made mainly from rice and lentils — both high in carbs. While it’s easier to digest and has some protein from the dal, it’s still not keto-friendly. Chapati Chapati is like the humble, healthier cousin of Roti Canai — less oily, more wholesome. It’s a staple for many Malaysian Indian households and can often be spotted at Mamaks too, usually served with dhal or curry.  Unlike Roti Canai, Chapati isn’t flaky or crispy — it’s soft, chewy, and usually made without ghee in the dough (though a light brush of ghee on top after cooking isn’t uncommon). Main Ingredients: Whole wheat flour (atta flour) Water A pinch of salt (Optional) Ghee or oil for softness Quick Note:Chapati is made from whole wheat flour, which means it’s still carb-heavy, though slightly higher in fiber and protein than Roti Canai. While it’s the healthier choice among traditional Mamaks, it’s still not keto-friendly since wheat is rich in carbohydrates. Roti Naan Roti Naan is like the premium version of Mamak bread — soft, fluffy, and usually baked in a tandoor (clay oven) instead of being pan-fried. You’ll often find it served hot with a dab of butter or ghee, and paired with rich gravies like Butter Chicken, Palak Paneer, or Tandoori Chicken. At Mamak shops, you’ll see versions like Garlic Naan, Cheese Naan, and Butter Naan, but for our comparison, we’ll go with the plain Roti Naan Kosong. Main Ingredients: All-purpose wheat flour Yeast (for leavening) Yogurt or milk (for softness and slight tang) Water Salt and sugar Ghee, butter, or oil Quick Note:Roti Naan is made with refined flour and yeast, making it soft but carb-dense. The addition of yogurt gives it a richer texture but doesn’t change its high-carb nature. In short, definitely not keto-friendly, though undeniably delicious when fresh from the tandoor. Idli Soft, fluffy, and slightly tangy — Idli is a South Indian breakfast classic that’s also quite common in Malaysian Mamak restaurants. These little steamed rice cakes are light on the stomach and often served with coconut chutney, sambar, or spicy tomato chutney. While they may look innocent, their mild flavour hides a surprisingly filling punch. Main Ingredients: Parboiled rice Urad dal (black gram lentils) Water A pinch of salt (Optional) Fenugreek seeds for fermentation Quick Note:Idli is made from a fermented rice and lentil batter, making it rich in carbs with a bit of protein from the lentils. Though healthier than fried breads like Roti Canai, it’s still not keto-friendly — mainly because rice is the dominant ingredient. Masala Vada Masala Vada — often called the Indian fritter — is the crispy, savoury snack you’ll smell from a mile away at any Mamak stall. It’s golden-brown, crunchy on the outside, and soft inside, packed with herbs, onions, and spices. Usually enjoyed with coconut chutney or just by itself with a hot cup of teh tarik. Main Ingredients: Chana dal (split chickpeas) Onion Curry leaves Green chili Ginger, garlic Salt and spices (like fennel, cumin, chili powder) Oil (for deep frying) Quick Note:Masala Vada is made from chickpeas (chana dal) — a legume that’s high in protein and fiber, but still too high in carbohydrates for

BLOX MYRC and the Malaysia Stablecoin Landscape

What is MYRC, Malaysia’s Ringgit-Backed Stablecoin? MYRC is a Ringgit Malaysia (RM)-backed stablecoin designed to maintain a 1:1 peg with the Malaysian ringgit. Each MYRC token represents one unit of ringgit held in reserve, ensuring price stability while allowing users to transact, transfer, and trade seamlessly on blockchain networks. By combining the reliability of the national currency with the efficiency of digital assets, MYRC serves as a bridge between traditional finance and Malaysia’s growing Web3 economy. How Malaysia Stablecoin, MYRC work? MYRC operates on a simple principle — every token in circulation is fully backed by an equivalent amount of Malaysian Ringgit (MYR) held in secure, industry-standard trustee accounts. This structure ensures a seamless 1:1 redemption between MYRC and the ringgit, allowing users to confidently convert their digital tokens back to fiat at any time while maintaining stability and trust in the ecosystem. How MYRC is issued? MYRC follows a transparent issuance process to maintain stability and trust. It is minted on the Ethereum and Arbitrum blockchains—decentralized public ledgers that record all MYRC transactions. Users can hold MYRC to hedge against crypto market volatility, benefiting from the token’s stability tied to the Malaysian Ringgit. When users choose to redeem MYRC for MYR, the redeemed tokens are permanently removed from circulation on-chain, ensuring a consistent 1:1 backing at all times. About the MYRC issuer: Blox.my BLOX.my is a Malaysia-based fintech platform focused on developing blockchain-driven financial solutions. The company aims to bridge traditional finance and digital assets through products that emphasize transparency, compliance, and accessibility. By introducing MYRC, a ringgit-backed stablecoin, BLOX.my contributes to Malaysia’s broader effort to explore regulated digital asset innovation within the country’s evolving fintech landscape. Compliance and regulations in the Malaysia Digital Asset Landscape Malaysia’s digital asset landscape operates under a regulated framework designed to ensure market integrity, consumer protection, and financial stability. The Securities Commission Malaysia (SC) oversees activities related to digital asset exchanges (DAXs) and token offerings, while the Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) governs aspects tied to payment systems, e-money, and anti-money laundering (AML/CFT) compliance. Stablecoins like MYRC fall within a regulatory gray area, as Malaysia has yet to introduce specific legislation for fiat-backed digital tokens. However, any entity offering such products is expected to align with existing financial and trust laws, maintain full transparency of reserves, and operate under strict governance standards. This dual oversight by SC and BNM creates a measured environment for innovation, balancing technological advancement with regulatory assurance. The Global Stablecoin Ecosystem The stablecoin ecosystem has become a critical pillar of the digital asset economy, bridging the gap between traditional finance and decentralized systems. Stablecoins are designed to maintain a stable value, typically pegged to fiat currencies like the U.S. dollar, euro, or local currencies, ensuring predictability in a highly volatile crypto market. Globally, stablecoins fall into three main categories: Fiat-backed stablecoins – Each token is fully backed by reserves of fiat currency or cash equivalents (e.g., USDT, USDC, PYUSD). Crypto-collateralized stablecoins – Backed by digital assets such as ETH or BTC, often managed through smart contracts (e.g., DAI). Algorithmic stablecoins – Maintain their peg using supply-demand algorithms, though many have proven unstable (e.g., UST collapse in 2022). As of 2025, stablecoins account for over US$160 billion in market capitalization, facilitating cross-border payments, DeFi liquidity, and digital commerce. Governments and regulators worldwide — from the U.S. Federal Reserve to the European Central Bank and Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) — are developing stablecoin-specific frameworks to enhance transparency, reserve quality, and redemption guarantees. This rapid evolution has turned stablecoins into the foundation of digital value transfer, influencing the design of Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) and inspiring fiat-backed initiatives in emerging markets, including Malaysia’s MYRC, that align with national currencies and regulatory safeguards. Why Stablecoins Matter for Malaysia Personal Opinion: As a Muslim-majority nation, I believe Malaysia is uniquely positioned to become a regional hub for Shariah-compliant digital assets and stablecoin innovation. With its strong foundation in Islamic finance and well-established regulatory institutions, the country has both the credibility and infrastructure to pioneer a digital asset exchange ecosystem aligned with Islamic principles. Positioning Malaysia as a Shariah-compliant digital asset hub in the Asia-Pacific region would not only strengthen its standing in the global fintech landscape but also attract investors seeking ethical and compliant alternatives in the expanding world of blockchain and Web3 finance. Final Thoughts: The Future of Stablecoins in Malaysia Stablecoins represent one of the most practical bridges between Malaysia’s traditional financial system and the emerging digital economy. While the regulatory framework is still evolving, initiatives such as ringgit-backed tokens like MYRC signal growing local interest in regulated, asset-backed digital currencies. Malaysia’s cautious but open approach, guided by BNM, SC, and Labuan FSA, provides a foundation for innovation without compromising stability, compliance, or consumer protection.  As the global stablecoin ecosystem matures, Malaysia has the potential to become a regional hub for compliant, fiat-linked digital assets, fostering greater financial inclusion and advancing the country’s role in the Web3 and digital finance landscape. Stablecoin FAQs: Are Stablecoins Legal in Malaysia? Currently, Malaysia does not have specific legislation that directly regulates stablecoins. However, activities involving stablecoins fall under the oversight of Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) and the Securities Commission Malaysia (SC), depending on their use case. If a stablecoin functions as a payment instrument or store of value, it may attract BNM’s supervision under payment system and AML/CFT guidelines. If it is traded or offered as an investment, it could fall under the SC’s digital asset regulations. Additionally, the Labuan Financial Services Authority (Labuan FSA) provides a licensed framework for digital asset businesses in the Labuan International Business and Financial Centre (Labuan IBFC), allowing regulated issuance and management of stablecoins in an offshore environment. In short, stablecoins are not banned in Malaysia, but their issuance and usage must align with existing financial, trust, and anti-money laundering laws. Stablecoin definition A stablecoin is a type of cryptocurrency designed to maintain a stable value by pegging its price to an underlying asset such as a

8 Advanced Search Techniques to Find Anything Online Faster

How to Search: 16 types of advanced search techniques In today’s information-heavy world, knowing how to search is just as important as what you search for. While most people rely on basic keyword searches, advanced search techniques can enhance the accuracy, relevance, and reliability of your results, which are crucial for research students who require trustworthy data for papers, projects, and reports. Whether you’re looking for information, knowledge, resources, or tools, these methods help you learn, know, create, or do something more efficiently. Mastering these eight techniques means less time scrolling, more time discovering what truly matters. Understanding search operator A search operator is a special symbol or command you add to your query to refine or filter search results. Instead of broad searches, operators help you find exactly what you need — such as a specific phrase, file type, or website. For example, typing site:edu limits results to educational sites, while using quotes ” ” searches for an exact match. Search technique 1: Quotes “Your Query” 关键词限定 ” “ When you place quotation marks around your search terms, Google will only show results containing that exact phrase in the same order. This helps filter out unrelated pages. Example: Searching “climate change effects” will show pages with that exact phrase, not results like “effects of changing climate.” Search technique 2: intitle: Your Query 网页标题限定 intitle: The intitle: operator lets you find pages with your keyword appearing in the title, which usually means the page focuses on that topic. Example: Searching intitle:RWA Tokenization shows results where “RWA Tokenization” appears in the page title. Pro Tip: Combine intitle: + “Your Query” This combo narrows results to pages with your exact phrase in the title, giving highly targeted outcomes. Perfect for finding focused articles or research papers. Example: intitle:”machine learning applications” shows only pages with that exact phrase in the title. Search technique 3: allintitle: Query 1 Query 2 限定标题多个关键词 allintitle: The allintitle: operator finds pages with all your keywords in the title, not just one. It’s great for targeting pages that clearly focus on your full topic. Example: allintitle:AI ethics policy shows pages with “AI,” “ethics,” and “policy” all in the title. Search technique 4: intext: Your Query 搜索网页正文中的关键词 intext: The intext: operator looks for pages where your keyword appears in the body text rather than just the title or URL. It’s useful for finding detailed discussions or explanations within articles. Example: intext:”data privacy regulations” finds pages that mention this exact phrase in the content. Pro Tip: Mix & Match various search operator You can mix and match multiple search operators to make your search highly specific. This helps you pinpoint exactly where and how terms appear on a page. Example: intitle:”Donald Trump” intext:”Genius Act” shows pages with “Donald Trump” in the title and “Genius Act” mentioned in the content. Search technique 5: Using inurl: Your Query  inurl: The inurl: operator finds pages with your keyword in the URL, often revealing site sections or topics directly related to your search. Example: Liverpool inurl:stadiumastro intext:youtube shows pages about Liverpool on the Stadium Astro site that also mention YouTube in the content. Search technique 6: site: Your website 限定搜索特定网站或域名 site: The site: operator limits your search results to a specific website or domain, perfect for finding content within one source. Example: asset tokenization site:chainup.com shows only pages from chainup.com that mention “asset tokenization.” Another good use case for the site: operator is finding royalty-free images from websites like Pexels, Pixabay, or Freepik. For example, if you’re looking for a cute little puppy, you can search: cute puppy site:pexels.com. Search technique 7: Your Query imagesize: imagesize: The imagesize: operator lets you find images with exact dimensions, perfect for designers or anyone looking for high-quality photos (materials/ resources). Example: Mark Zuckerberg imagesize:2560×1440 Sam Altman imagesize:3840×2160 Elon Musk imagesize:5760×3840 2560×1440, 5760×3840, and 3840×2160 are commonly used sizes for graphic design or HD visuals. Search technique 8: Your Query filetype: filetype: The filetype: operator helps you find results in a specific file format, such as PDF, PPT, JPG, PNG, SVG, GIF, or XLS — ideal for locating reports, presentations, or images. Example: Maybank Annual Report filetype:pdf shows only PDF files of Maybank’s annual reports. Search technique 9: Using related: — 搜索相似网站或相关内容 related: The related: operator helps you find websites similar to a specific domain — useful for competitor research or content discovery. Example: related:chainup.com shows other sites similar to chainup.com. Search technique 10: Using – (Minus Sign) — 排除特定关键词或主题 – (Minus Sign) The minus sign excludes specific words or sites from your search results, allowing you to focus on what matters. Example: related:chainup.com -site:chainup.com shows sites related to Chainup but excludes results from chainup.com itself. Search technique 11: Using OR / | : 搜索包含任一关键词的结果 OR / | The OR (or |) operator lets you find pages that include either one keyword or the other, widening your search scope. Example: AI ethics OR AI policy shows results containing either “AI ethics” or “AI policy.” Search technique 12: Using AND — 搜索同时包含多个关键词的结果 AND The AND operator ensures that results include all specified terms, making your search more precise. Example: “roti canai” AND “keto friendly” shows pages that mention both phrases together. Search technique 13: Using Asterik * — 通配符，填补缺失的词或短语 * The asterisk acts as a wildcard to fill in missing words or phrases. It’s great for discovering variations of a search idea. Example: best * in ParisGoogle will replace the * with words like places, museums, hotels, restaurants, or tourist spots. Search technique 14: Using stocks: — 查看公司股票与财务信息 stocks: The stocks: operator lets you quickly check a company’s stock price and financial data. Example: stocks:tesla Google will display Tesla’s current stock price, market cap, price chart, and other relevant financial details. Search technique 15: Using source: — 搜索来自特定新闻来源的文章 source: The source: operator helps you find news articles from a specific publisher in Google News. Example: tesla source:nytimes.comYou’ll see news articles about Tesla from The New York Times. Search technique 16: Search by Image Instead of Text Use Google Lens (Search by image) Google Lens lets you search the web using

Understanding Chan Kang’s Mentor-Mentee Program

About Mentor-Mentee Program Chan Kang’s Mentor-Mentee Program is an exclusive 1:1 coaching experience designed for individuals who demand real transformation. Built around our tagline:  ‘Procrastination Destroyer, Consistency Builder’  This program helps you eliminate delays, break destructive patterns, and create the discipline needed to achieve meaningful success.  If you’re serious about elevating your performance and accelerating results, this is where change begins. If this is what you’re facing, this program is design for you! You can set almost any kind of goal to achieve. For example, you may want to hit the gym to improve your physical shape, or you may want to learn a high-value skill such as video editing, or even start a side business to increase your income.  However, here’s what often gets in the way: Pain Points: Procrastination — “Tomorrow, tomorrow, tomorrow…” There’s always another tomorrow to start going to the gym, which means you never start today. Often, procrastination stems from a lack of external accountability (supervision). Bad habits – You know ultra-processed food is bad, but it’s just too addictive to stop. Lack of motivation – You want to learn a new skill, but you just can’t find the drive to begin. Low energy – After a 9-to-5 job, you’re drained and can’t focus or “eat that frog.” People are never short of ideas; what they truly lack is the drive to take action. Too many distractions – TikTok, Instagram, and everything else keep stealing your attention. Chasing instant gratification – Like bad habits, you want quick dopamine hits: relaxing with TV instead of working out, choosing short-term comfort over long-term health benefits. 5-9 p.m. economy Most of us fall into the ‘Employee’ category in Robert Kiyosaki’s ESBI (Cashflow Quadrant) model, which describes four ways people earn money: Employee, Self-Employed, Business Owner, and Investor.  Assuming we need 7–8 hours of sleep and spend 9–5 at work, the remaining hours from 5–9 pm are crucial for pursuing personal goals and building the future we want. 3 main scarce resources daily to get the 1% better: Even though we can squeeze out time — for example, between 8 PM to 10 PM before bed — for a workout, learning a new skill, picking up a language, or reading, our energy and focus are often already drained!  1. Time 2. Energy 3. Focus We all have just 24 hours per day. Like time, your energy is finite. How you rest, fuel, and manage stress determines how much you can actually get done. Even with time and energy, without focus, you scatter your efforts. Guard your attention like treasure — it’s what turns effort into real progress. We all have just 24 hours per day. Like time, your energy is finite. How you rest, fuel, and manage stress determines how much you can actually get done. Even with time and energy, without focus, you scatter your efforts. Guard your attention like treasure — it’s what turns effort into real progress. That’s why we need a coach or mentor to act as a catalyst and motivator, pushing us to stay consistent. This is exactly what this Mentor-Mentee program is designed to do. Mentor-Mentee Program’s Mechanisms There are three key mechanisms behind this program that you should understand before joining: the SMART Goal framework, the Carrot-and-Stick approach, and Gamification. What is the SMART Goal framework 1. SpecificYour goal must be clear and well-defined.Example: Instead of “I want to be healthier,” say, “I will practice intermittent fasting daily, do prolonged fasting once a week, and go to the gym twice per week.” 2. MeasurableYour goal must include a way to track progress.Example: Instead of “I want to earn more money,” say, “I will earn $3,000 per day by selling e-books, online courses, or other high-ticket products.” 3. AchievableYour goal must be realistic for your current stage.Example: Wanting to play in the English Premier League is unrealistic if you’re not yet a pro, but it sounds achievable if you’re already playing in Liga Malaysia. 4. RelevantBreak your main goal into smaller, actionable steps—and make sure each step directly contributes to your overall objective.  5. Time-boundEvery goal must have a clear deadline. When goals have no specific timeline — “I can do it anytime” — they become difficult to execute.Example: “I will complete this by the end of the quarter,” rather than leaving it open-ended. What is the Carrot-and-Stick approach This method combines rewards (the carrot) and consequences (the stick) to keep us accountable. The carrot is the reward you may receive when you keep your promises and hit your targets. The stick is the penalty or consequence you face if you fail to deliver on your commitments. What is Gamification Gamification is the use of game-like elements, such as rewards, points, or progress tracking, to make tasks more engaging and motivating. Staying consistent with tasks that are unpleasant but beneficial can feel challenging and even mundane.  We encourage participants to gamify the process rather than treating it like a boss-driven KPI chase.  By turning progress into a game — rewarding milestones, tracking achievements, and celebrating small wins — you stay motivated, engaged, and eager to keep going. 1. SpecificYour goal must be clear and well-defined.Example: Instead of “I want to be healthier,” say, “I will practice intermittent fasting daily, do prolonged fasting once a week, and go to the gym twice per week.” 2. MeasurableYour goal must include a way to track progress.Example: Instead of “I want to earn more money,” say, “I will earn $3,000 per day by selling e-books, online courses, or other high-ticket products.” 3. AchievableYour goal must be realistic for your current stage.Example: Wanting to play in the English Premier League is unrealistic if you’re not yet a pro, but it sounds achievable if you’re already playing in Liga Malaysia. 4. RelevantBreak your main goal into smaller, actionable steps—and make sure each step directly contributes to your overall objective.  5. Time-boundEvery goal must have a clear deadline. When goals have no specific timeline — “I can do it