Google Ads Keyword Research: Your 10 Step Strategy for 2026

Yes, keyword research still matters in Google Ads. And no, AI can't do it for you! The most successful Google Ads advertisers are the ones who provide campaigns with the foundation they need to learn from, and that includes properly selected and themed keywords. In episode 123 of Inside Google Ads, Google Ads Coach Jyll Saskin Gales explains why keyword research is still your steering wheel for Google's most powerful AI features like Smart Bidding, Broad Match and AI Max for Search campaigns. She shares her 10-step process for effective keyword research, moving from initial customer data and keyword selection to ad group structure and analyzing the search terms report. You will learn how to protect your budget with negative keywords, how to use Keyword Planner correctly, and why you should avoid relying on AI tools like ChatGPT or Claude for your keyword lists.Key topics discussed include:Why keyword research is still vital for keywordless targeting.Jyll's 10-step process for effective keyword research.How to use Keyword Planner to find real search data.Strategies like non-brand competitor conquesting.Transitioning from exact match to broad match safely.How to align your paid and organic search strategies for better results.You can get Inside Google Ads episode transcripts delivered to your inbox each week by signing up for free at https://free.jyll.ca/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=episode123Google Ads CoachingNeed some expert help with your Google Ads strategy or optimizing your campaigns? Book a call with Jyll! Learn more at https://jyll.ca/pages/google-ads-coach?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=episode123Inside Google Ads courseJoin 400+ marketers like you who are mastering Google Ads with Jyll's Inside Google Ads membership course. You'll get exclusive access to JyllBot, and you can meet top industry experts at an exclusive live video call every single month. Learn more at https://learn.jyll.ca/iga?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=episode123Read more about this topic on Jyll's Google Ads BlogHow to Predict Your CPCs with Google Ads Keyword Planner https://learn.jyll.ca/blog/how-to-predict-your-cpcs-with-google-ads-keyword-planner?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=episode123When to use Keyword Planner, Performance Planner, Reach Planner in Google Ads https://learn.jyll.ca/blog/when-to-use-keyword-planner-performance-planner-reach-planner-in-google-ads?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=episode123How Many Keywords Should Be in One Google Ads Ad Group? https://learn.jyll.ca/blog/how-many-keywords-should-be-in-one-google-ads-ad-group?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=episode123Follow Jyll on social mediahttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jyllsaskingaleshttps://www.youtube.com/@the_google_prohttps://www.instagram.com/the_google_prohttps://www.threads.net/@the_google_pro