Ads at the Top of Google AdWords Results

Jul 20, 2004 - 12:55 pm 3 — by
Filed Under Google Ads

Why do some Google AdWords ads show at the top of the Google search results and some show only on the right? This question was the first question asked and answered to the AdWordsRep at the Search Engine Watch forums.

adwords-top-and-right-s.gif View Large Image
The only ads that can show above the main serps at the top of Google.com are the ones that meet both of the following criteria: (1) be reviewed and approved, and (2) meet an additional performance bar that focuses on relevancy - rather than what you're paying

The AdWordsRep further clarifies:

Ads on the right are positioned by virtue of two factors, measured equally. These factors are Maximum CPC and CTR. Max CPC x CTR = your rank number. And it is your rank number as compared to your competitors rank numbers that determines position.

Ads going to the top, however, weigh CTR (which is a measure of the relevance of your ads to users) more heavily than CPC. And rather than Maximum CPC, it is the actual CPC that matters.

 

Popular Categories

The Pulse of the search community

Google Search Volatility

More Details

Search Video Recaps

 
Video Details More Videos Subscribe to Videos

Most Recent Articles

Search Forum Recap

Daily Search Forum Recap: September 29, 2026

Sep 29, 2026 - 10:00 am
Misc Google

Google's Nick Fox Feels Sad & Terrible For European Searchers After DMA

Sep 29, 2026 - 7:51 am
Google Maps

Google Local Panel With Two Rows Of Buttons On Mobile

Sep 29, 2026 - 7:41 am
Google

Google AI Overviews Testing Citations Cards At Bottom (Not Right Side) Again

Sep 29, 2026 - 7:31 am
Google Maps

Google Maps Bug Places Map Pins In Middle Of Ocean

Sep 29, 2026 - 7:21 am
Google Maps

Google Business Profiles Policies Adds Misuse Of Support Channels

Sep 29, 2026 - 7:11 am
Previous Story: Home Page PageRank 0 But Inner Page PageRank Constant