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Setting Up Google Analytics 4 (GA4)

A Simple Guide for Startups

Why GA4? Think of GA4 as your website's health tracker. It tells you who's visiting, what they're doing, and if your marketing efforts are working. Unlike the older version (Universal Analytics), GA4 is built for the future of online measurement, focusing on user engagement across platforms (website and app).

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Step 1: Create a GA4 Property (Account)

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  1. Go to Google Analytics: If you don't have an account, go to analytics.google.com and sign in with your Google account (the same one you use for Google Ads, Search Console, etc. is ideal).

  2. Admin Panel: Click "Admin" (it's usually at the bottom left, looks like a gear).

  3. Create Property: In the "Account" column (the far left), make sure your account is selected. In the middle "Property" column, click “Create Property”.

  4. Choose GA4: Select "GA4" from the property type options.

  5. Name Your Property: Give your GA4 property a descriptive name (e.g., "My Startup Website GA4").

  6. Configure Data Stream: A data stream is how GA4 collects data. Click on the "Web" platform.

  7. Website URL: Enter your website address (e.g., https://www.yourwebsite.com).

  8. Stream Name: Give your web data stream a name (e.g., "Main Website Stream").

  9. Enhanced Measurement: GA4 automatically tracks many common interactions (page views, scrolls, outbound clicks, site search, video engagement, and file downloads). Leave these enabled for now. You can always customize it later.

  10. Create Stream: Click "Create stream."

 

Step 2: Install the GA4 Tag on Your Website

 

This is how GA4 gets the data. You have a couple of options:

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  • Option 1: Using a Website Platform/CMS Plugin (Easiest): If you use WordPress, Shopify, Wix, Squarespace, etc., they often have plugins or built-in integrations for Google Analytics. Look for "Google Analytics" in your platform's settings or plugin library. You'll usually just need to paste your "Measurement ID" (which looks like G-XXXXXXXXXX). Find this ID in your Data Stream details (Step 1, point 9). This is the recommended option for most users, if available.
     

  • Option 2: Manually Adding the Tag (For those comfortable with code):
     

    1. Get the Tag: In your Data Stream details (Step 1, point 9), you'll see "Tagging instructions". Click on "View tag instructions". Choose “Install manually”. You’ll see a snippet of code (it starts with <script async src=...).

    2. Add to Website: Copy this code snippet. You need to paste it into the <head> section of every page of your website. If you're not sure how to do this, ask your web developer for help. This is very important that it's done correctly.

 

Step 3: Verify Your Setup​

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  1. Visit Your Website: Go to your website in a new browser tab.

  2. Check Realtime Reports: In your GA4 property, go to "Reports" and then "Realtime." You should see activity on your site (page views, etc.) within a few minutes. If you don’t see any data after a few minutes, double-check your tag installation.

 

Step 4: Start Exploring!

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GA4 has a lot to offer. Start by familiarizing yourself with the reports:

  • Acquisition: See where your website traffic is coming from (Google, social media, etc.).

  • Engagement: Understand how users are interacting with your content (page views, scrolls, etc.).

  • Monetization: (If applicable) Track sales and conversions.

  • User: Learn about your website visitors (demographics, interests).

 

Key Tip for Startups: Focus on understanding your customer journey. What pages do they visit before converting? Where are they dropping off? GA4 can help you answer these questions and improve your website.

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This guide is a starting point. As your startup grows, you can dive deeper into GA4's advanced features. Don't be afraid to experiment and learn as you go!

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