After building your website, the next step is to add the tracking code. The Google Analytics backend can be complex, and frequent updates can leave many users confused. Below is a streamlined process to help you implement Google Analytics tracking code effectively and monitor daily site traffic.
Step 1: Create a Google Analytics Account
Visit the Google Analytics website. Log in using your Google account. On the homepage, click the management icon in the lower-left corner, then select “Create” under “Account,” followed by “Add Property.” If you don’t have an account, make sure to create one first!
Step 2: Set Up a New Property
Once the initial setup is complete, Google will provide you with a tracking code. The property creation process is straightforward. Follow the prompts step by step. However, even seasoned users might find locating the added code a bit tricky—refer to the demonstration images if needed.
Step 3: Obtain the Tracking Code
After setting up your account, navigate to the “Admin” page. Choose your account and property, then find “Data Streams” and select your website. Under “Settings,” locate the Global Site Tag (gtag.js), and copy the provided JavaScript code.
Step 4: Add Code to Your Website
Open your website’s code, and typically, you’ll want to insert the copied code within the <head> tag. Ensure that the code is added before the closing </head> tag. If you are using a Content Management System (like WordPress), you can either add this code in your theme settings or use a plugin (like Insert Headers and Footers) to facilitate the insertion.
Step 5: Save and Check
Save your changes and publish your webpage. Wait for 24 hours, then return to Google Analytics to view your traffic data.
Step 6: Verify Installation
You can use the Google Tag Assistant extension to verify if the tracking code has been installed correctly. This will allow you to start monitoring your website’s daily traffic effectively.
By following these steps, you can seamlessly implement Google Analytics tracking code on your self-built website. If you encounter any other issues, feel free to leave a comment or ask questions!
