Q1: With Google Analytics session timer set to 30 minutes, does a second visit trigger a new session if it is done within 30 minutes from last click/activity?

A1: If a visitor leaves the site (close the tab or browser) and come back within 30 minutes of last click/activity on the site, the second visit would trigger new session IF:

• it is a result of clicking on an Adwords ad
• it is a result of clicking on an organic search result
• it is a result of clicking on a link tagged with UTM variables

BUT, the second visit would NOT trigger new session if:

• it is a direct visit to the site (by typing the URL or using browser bookmarks)
• it is a referral visit (clicking on a link from a 3rd party website) that is not tagged with UTM variables
• it is a result of clicking on a link tagged with utm_nooverride=1

Q2: What if a website uses a 3rd party payment gateway (or shopping cart) with no GA code on it, and it throws the user back to the original website (to a thankyou page / goal completion page) upon conclusion of the payment?

A2: Then there is no need to tag the link back with anything. As long as the user completes the payment process and get back to the original website within 30 minutes, the first session (and campaign information) remains valid. However, if the user takes longer than 30 minutes to complete the payment, the jump back would be counted against the payment gateway as the “referrer”, and the goal completion would be incorrectly attributed towards this referrer website.

Q3: Is it true that any visit across midnight triggers a new session?

A3: Yes, visit across midnight triggers a new session (new visit), with the same campaign information as the first session. Midnight is determined based on the timezone set for the GA profile for which the visit is recorded. Hence, it is important to set your timezone correctly when setting up the profile.

How to easily pass your Google Analytics Individual Qualification (GAIQ) exam? Here’s my tips.

First, congratulations to me, I just passed with flying colours this morning!

Google Analytics Individual Qualification (GAIQ) Exam results, name witheld to protect individuals

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