Learn how to set up ad inventory in Google Ad Manager step-by-step, from creating ad units to implementing ad tags on your website.

By Meenakshi – AZAD Architects, Barnala

How Do You Set Up Ad Inventory in Google Ad Manager?

A step-by-step guide to creating ad units and organizing your ad inventory for effective monetization.

Setting up your ad inventory is a foundational step in using Google Ad Manager (GAM) effectively. It defines how ads are delivered on your website or app, and allows you to control every aspect of your monetization strategy. Here is how to do it:

1. Access Google Ad Manager

• Go to Google Ad Manager and log in.

• If you have not already, make sure your account is approved and linked to a verified website or app.

2. Go to Inventory → Ad Units

• In the left-hand navigation menu, click on Inventory, then choose Ad Units.

• Ad units represent the individual ad spaces (like banners or sidebars) on your site.

3. Click “New Ad Unit” to Create One

Here you will fill out the following details:

Name & Code

• Give your ad unit a unique name (e.g., homepage-top-banner)

• GAM will automatically generate an Ad Unit Code based on this name.

Size

• Choose predefined sizes (like 300x250, 728x90) or select “responsive” for mobile-friendly layouts.

Target Window

• Select whether the ad should open in the same window or a new window when clicked.

4. (Optional) Add Targeting & Placements

• You can assign the ad unit to placements, which group ad units by theme, location, or type.

• This makes it easier for advertisers to buy multiple spots together.

5. Save the Ad Unit

• Once saved, Google will give you the GPT (Google Publisher Tag) code snippet.

6. Add the Code to Your Website

• Copy and paste the GPT code into the HTML of your website, wherever you want the ad to appear.

• Make sure it is placed in a visible and high-performing location, like:

• Above the fold
  

• Sidebar
  

• Between content sections

Tips for Effective Inventory Setup

• Create separate ad units for each unique placement to track performance easily.

• Use clear, consistent naming for your ad units (e.g., blog-sidebar-300x250).

• Avoid excessive ad units on one page to prevent policy violations.

Thank you!

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Meenakshi (Azad Architects, Barnala)