Create a GA4 property and web data stream, install the tag through Google Tag Manager, add events for the actions that matter, verify the site in Search Console, submit the sitemap and link the two. Finish with a Looker Studio report so the numbers are readable. All of it is free.
Tools you need
The 10 steps
Create the GA4 property
In Google Analytics create an account and a property, then a web data stream for your domain. Copy the Measurement ID (starts with G-).
Create a Tag Manager container
In Tag Manager create a web container and copy the two snippets into your site's head and body as instructed. Publish an empty version so the container loads.
Add the GA4 tag
In the container, add a Google tag with your Measurement ID, triggered on All Pages. Use Preview mode to confirm it fires, then publish.
Track the actions that matter
Add triggers for outbound link clicks, button clicks (by class or ID) and form submissions. Create GA4 event tags for each with clear names such as cta_click and lead_form_submit. Preview, then publish.
Mark key events
In GA4 Admin, open Events and mark lead_form_submit (or your main action) as a key event so it appears as a conversion in reports.
Verify Search Console
Add your domain in Search Console. Use the DNS record method for the whole domain, or the HTML tag method through Tag Manager for a single site.
Submit the sitemap
Create or find your sitemap (/sitemap.xml) and submit it in Search Console. Check Pages for indexing errors over the next few days.
Link the products
In GA4 Admin, link Search Console and Google Ads if you use them. Search queries then appear inside GA4.
Build a report
In Looker Studio, connect GA4 and Search Console. Add sessions by channel, key events, top queries and top pages. Share the link.
Add UTMs to everything you share
Use the campaign URL builder for every link in email, social or ads so GA4 can attribute the traffic.
Make it yours
- Track scroll depth and file downloads.
- Set up consent mode if your audience includes the EU.
- Add a Microsoft Clarity tag for free session recordings.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Fix |
|---|---|
| No data in GA4 | The tag is not published, or an ad blocker is on. Check Preview mode and Realtime. |
| Events show but no conversions | Mark the event as a key event in Admin and wait for data to collect. |
| Search Console says not verified | DNS changes take time; re-check in a few hours. |
Frequently asked questions
Is Google Analytics 4 free?
Yes, for the vast majority of sites. Tag Manager, Search Console and Looker Studio are also free.
Do I need Tag Manager?
No, but it lets you add events without editing code and is what employers expect you to know.
How long until Search Console shows data?
Usually a few days after verification, longer for new sites.
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