How to write Google Ads RSAs that earn clicks above AI Overviews
AI Overviews are pushing organic results down — but ads still sit on top. Write Responsive Search Ads so they cut through above the AI answer.
On AIO-heavy queries, paid ads have become the highest-CTR real estate on the page. The catch: shoppers have already read the AI answer before they see your ad, so the ad needs to be sharper than ever.
- A Google Ads account with at least one active Search campaign
Step by step
- 01
Write 15 headlines, not the minimum 3
Google's RSA tests combinations. The more you give it, the better the algorithm performs. Aim for the full 15 headlines and 4 descriptions.
- 02
Pin one outcome-led headline to position 1
Example: 'Rank #1 on Google in 90 Days'. Pinning position 1 guarantees the strongest hook stays visible.
- 03
Address the AI Overview in headline 2
AIO already answered the basic question. Your headline 2 should differentiate: 'Done For You. No Tools To Learn.' or 'Proven With 200+ Clients'.
- 04
Use the long headline (90 chars) for proof
Specific numbers, named clients, time-to-result. Proof outperforms benefits in the post-AIO era.
- 05
Add 4 sitelinks with intent verbs
'See Pricing', 'Book a Call', 'View Case Studies', 'See FAQs'. Sitelinks are essentially free clicks.
- 06
Enable conversion tracking + Enhanced Conversions
Without it, Smart Bidding flies blind. Enhanced Conversions sends hashed first-party data back to Google for accurate attribution.
Key takeaways
- Quantity of headlines and descriptions feeds the RSA algorithm — give it the full 15 + 4.
- Differentiate from the AIO answer; don't repeat it.
- Proof (numbers, names, dates) outperforms benefits in 2026.
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