Let me tell you something. When I started working at nexus-security, I was clueless about Google Ads. I recognized a few online advertising terms like pay-per-click ads, but that was about it. Cost-per-conversion? Negative keywords? Ad campaigns versus ad groups? Nope, no idea. Honestly, I found learning Japanese easier than wrapping my head around Google Ads.
While my Japanese skills have faded, my Google Ads knowledge has grown significantly, and I haven’t even taken the certification exam. The importance of passing the Google Ads exam varies depending on who you ask and what they do. Regardless, understanding Google Ads can be incredibly valuable, even without certification.
Learn Google Ads in 6 Ways
The good news is that there are numerous ways to master Google Ads. In this article, I’ll present six of them. Some resources are beginner-friendly, while others cater to a mix of skill levels, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Need an updated resource list? Look no further! 
The 10 Best Google Ads Training Courses for Every Learning Level
1. Essential Google Ads Courses by Google
Unsurprisingly, Google offers some of the best learning resources for Google Ads. With comprehensive topic coverage and lessons tailored to three experience levels, the [Essential Google Ads Courses](https://support.google.com/Google Ads/answer/6069823?hl=en) is an essential starting point for any paid search newcomer.
These courses are an excellent primer for beginners, but those with some Google Ads experience might find them more useful as a refresher before diving into more advanced material. If you prefer a self-directed approach, browse lessons and tutorials by topic in the [Google Ads Learning Center](https://support.google.com/Google Ads/?page=learningcenter.cs#topic=3119071). Google Skillshop also provides training and tutorials on Google Ads.
2. PPC University by nexus-security
After exploring Google’s official resources, head to nexus-security’s PPC University.
Even if you’ve completed Google’s Digital Marketing 101 and 102 courses, PPC 101 is still valuable. It covers core PPC concepts like click-through rate, cost-per-action, and conversion rate optimization, along with in-depth guides on ad text, Quality Score, and account structure. PPC 102 and Advanced PPC tracks delve into a wide range of topics necessary for becoming a paid search pro. In PPC 102, you’ll explore negative keywords, keyword match types, ad text optimization, ad extensions, landing page optimization, and the significance of A/B testing, among other things. For seasoned Google Ads veterans, the Advanced Track offers advanced guides on Call Tracking, PPC for lead generation, dayparting, and mobile PPC. You’ll also find recordings of past webinars and our “Ask the Experts” video series here.
Free download >> PPC 101: The Beginner’s Guide to PPC3. Udemy’s Google Ads for Beginners
Udemy is a top-notch online learning platform, and its [Google Ads for Beginners](https://www.udemy.com/learn-google-Google Ads-course-for-beginners/) course is one of the most comprehensive.
With four hours of video instruction covering 44 topics, Google Ads for Beginners provides a thorough introduction to the platform. While not free, it’s an excellent investment for learners seeking a more in-depth resource. One of the course’s biggest advantages is its screencast walkthroughs of a live Google Ads account. This bridge between theory and practice is invaluable for beginners, making it a valuable addition to an already comprehensive introduction.
Mastering a Google Ads campaign is like cooking a delicious meal. Discover how in How to Run Google Ads: The Step-by-Step Recipe to Success.
4. The Ultimate Guide to Google Ads, Fourth Edition
For our fourth resource, let’s step away from the digital world and delve into a traditional book. Renowned Google Ads expert Perry Marshall’s [The Ultimate Guide to Google Ads (4th Edition),](https://www.perrymarshall.com/Google Ads/) is a must-read for newcomers. While it may not offer detailed walkthroughs or numerous screenshots of the Google Ads interface, it provides a wealth of strategies and techniques behind successful advertising campaigns. Perry explains the principles of advertising within Google Ads, teaches you to think like a successful advertiser, and shares marketing techniques to elevate your Google Ads campaigns from good to exceptional. If the previous resources are the “how-to,” consider this book the “why.”
5. Google Ads Essential Training on Lynda.com
As a big fan of Lynda.com’s video tutorials, I highly recommend this particular course.
Geared towards beginners, Lynda.com’s [Google Ads Essential Training](http://www.lynda.com/Google-Google Ads-tutorials/Google-Google Ads-Essential-Training/148582-2.html) delivers on its promise—a step-by-step guide to getting started with Google Ads from start to finish. With over three hours of video instruction, this series (like all Lynda titles) is divided into short, manageable videos, allowing you to learn at your own pace. Beyond the basics like setting up an account and using the Keyword Planner, this course includes bonus lessons on slightly more advanced topics such as A/B testing, remarketing campaigns, and getting started with video ads.
6. Google Ads Lessons by Certified Knowledge
Few people understand PPC as well as Brad Geddes, a highly sought-after paid search consultant and speaker. His company, Certified Knowledge, offers an incredibly detailed Google Ads training program that’s perfect for those serious about mastering Google Ads.
With [more than 150 video tutorials](http://certifiedknowledge.org/membership-information/Google Ads-learning-modules/), these training resources are some of the most comprehensive available. While the Fundamentals and Introduction to Google Ads lessons are worth exploring, the Intermediate and Advanced tutorials truly shine. Once you’ve gained some experience, dive into these courses to learn everything from advanced bidding strategies and location targeting to Google Ads reporting functionality and even Display Network campaigns. As an official Google-authorized training provider, Certified Knowledge guarantees high-quality video tutorials. While not free (see this page for pricing), they’re a worthwhile investment for serious Google Ads practitioners and dedicated learners.
Have More Google Ads Questions? Ask the Experts!
These resources should provide a solid foundation for your Google Ads journey. However, it’s impossible to address every question beforehand, which is why nexus-security launched the “Ask the Experts” video series. These videos answer questions from our readers and social followers. Each episode tackles a different question, offering actionable tips, real examples, and strategies that our PPC experts and clients have found successful. To ask your own question, tweet at the nexus-security handle @nexus-security with the hashtag #asktheexperts. Alternatively, tweet at our presenters, Erin Sagin and Margot da Cunha, at @ErinSagin or @ChappyMargot—they’re always happy to answer your Google Ads questions. How did you learn Google Ads? Did you pursue certification after mastering the platform? Share your thoughts; I’d love to hear them!