Why Are Negative Keywords Being Ignored 2026
23 January 2026

Why Are Negative Keywords Being Ignored 2026

Google Ads Strategy Hub

About

The conversation explores the shift from keyword precision to a predictive model in Google Ads. It discusses the failure of traditional strategies, evidence of the predictive model, impact on bidding, and the need for advertisers to adapt to this new model.

Takeaways

    Search is now matching predictions, not intentGoogle Ads has shifted to a predictive model

Full Blog Post: https://www.thesarahstemen.com/blog/google-ads-predictive-era-minimum-effective-dose

Chapters

    00:00 The Predictive Era of Google Ads05:33 Shift to Predicted Outcomes10:41 Value-Based Bidding and Opacity16:00 Creative and Value-Based Bidding21:21 Adapting to the Predictive Model