How do I troubleshoot errors in Google Ads scripts?

Common Reasons for Errors

Errors may occur in Google Ads scripts for several reasons. Here are a few common ones:

1. Syntax Errors: This happens if there's a typing mistake in the code, like missing semicolons or brackets.

2. Logic Errors: This means the script does run, but it does not perform as expected because of a mistake in the logical flow.

3. Authentication Errors: The script will not function if it lacks the necessary permissions.

4. Timeout Errors: If the script takes too long to run, it might stop with an error.

5. Missing Resources: If the script tries to use something, like an ad or campaign, that doesn't exist anymore, it will fail.

Steps to Troubleshoot Errors

Step 1: Check the Error Messages

When you run a script, Google Ads will show an error message if something goes wrong. Pay attention to these messages because they usually give you a clue about what's wrong. For example, it might say “Syntax error on line 10,” which tells you where to look.

Step 2: Review the Script Code

Sometimes, simply reading through your code can help. Look for simple mistakes like:

• Misspellings
• Missing commas, brackets, or semicolons
• Incorrect variable names or functions

Step 3: Use Logger.log

Within your script, you can use a feature called Logger.log. This lets you print out different parts of your script to see what's going on inside. For example, if you want to check the value of a variable at a certain point, you can log it. This is a great way to figure out where the script is going wrong.

This might not be available in every script. This is at the discretion of every script developer.

Step 4: Simplify Your Script

If the script is very long, it can be hard to find the error. Try testing smaller parts of the script separately. Once you know those parts work, you can put them back together. This approach makes it much easier to spot where the error is.

Step 5: Check Permissions

Ensure that your Google Ads account has the correct permissions to run the script. If the script is supposed to make changes to ads, it needs the necessary authority to do so.

Step 6: Test with Sample Data

If the script is supposed to work with data, try using some sample data to see if it runs correctly. This will help you assess whether the script can accurately process various input types.

Step 7: Look at Google Ads Documentation

Google provides extensive documentation on Google Ads scripts. Going over these can provide insight into how different functions should work. It might also provide solutions to problems you're facing.

Step 8: Seek Help from the script developer or online communities if the developer is unresponsive.

If you're still stuck, try asking for help in online communities or forums. Numerous people use Google Ads scripts and can share tips or solutions. Websites like Stack Overflow or the Google Ads Help Community are good places to ask questions.

Troubleshooting errors in Google Ads scripts can be frustrating, but by following these steps, you can identify and fix issues more efficiently. Remember to check error messages closely, review your code, use logs, and have the right permissions set up. With practice, you'll improve at identifying errors, helping your scripts run smoothly. Keep expanding your skills, and don't hesitate to seek support from the community when needed!