Tool You Love

How to Shorten URLs and Track Clicks Like a Pro

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by

zherx
in

Introduction

Long URLs can look messy and unprofessional, especially when sharing links on social media, emails, or blog posts. URL shorteners help create clean, shareable links while also providing valuable insights into click tracking. In this guide, we’ll explore how to shorten URLs and track clicks like a pro using free and premium tools.

Why Use a URL Shortener?

  • Makes Links Short & Clean – Perfect for sharing on social media and print media.
  • Improves Click-Through Rates (CTR) – People are more likely to click a short, readable link.
  • Tracks Clicks & Engagement – Monitors how many people click your links.
  • Hides UTM Parameters & Referral Info – Keeps URLs clean while tracking marketing campaigns.

Best URL Shortening Tools

1. Bit.ly – Popular Link Shortener with Analytics

  • Features:
    • Shortens URLs instantly.
    • Tracks clicks, locations, and referrers.
    • Customizable branded links.
  • Best For: Marketers, bloggers, and businesses.
  • Website: bitly.com

2. TinyURL – Simple & Free URL Shortener

  • Features:
    • No signup required.
    • Custom alias for branded links.
    • Basic click tracking.
  • Best For: Quick, no-login link shortening.
  • Website: tinyurl.com

3. Rebrandly – Branded Short Links for Businesses

  • Features:
    • Custom domains for professional branding.
    • Advanced tracking and analytics.
    • UTM builder for marketing campaigns.
  • Best For: Businesses and social media marketers.
  • Website: rebrandly.com

4. urqt.in – Custom URL Shortener by Tool You Love

  • Features:
    • Fast 301 redirections for SEO-friendly links.
    • Built-in click tracking and analytics.
    • Custom short URLs for branding.
  • Best For: Bloggers and content creators.
  • Website: urqt.in

How to Track Clicks on Shortened Links

1. Using Bit.ly Analytics

  • Log in to Bit.ly and paste your long URL.
  • Click Shorten and copy the new short link.
  • Open Bit.ly Dashboard → Click on your link to see:
    • Total Clicks
    • Referring Websites (where people clicked the link)
    • Geographic Location of Visitors

2. Using Google Analytics with UTM Parameters

  • Go to Google’s UTM Builder (Campaign URL Builder).
  • Add tracking parameters like:
    • utm_source (Facebook, Twitter, Blog, etc.)
    • utm_medium (Post, Email, Ad, etc.)
    • utm_campaign (Product Launch, Black Friday, etc.)
  • Shorten the generated UTM URL with Bit.ly or urqt.in.
  • Track UTM data in Google Analytics under Acquisition → Campaigns.

3. Using Google Search Console for Blog URLs

  • Add your blog website to Google Search Console.
  • Monitor the Performance section to see:
    • Clicks & Impressions
    • Top Referring Pages
    • Search Queries Driving Traffic

Pro Tips for Using Shortened Links

✔ Use Custom Short URLs – Instead of a generic short link, use branded links like urqt.in/blog-guide.
✔ Test Different Short Links – A/B test different short links to see which gets better engagement.
✔ Avoid Spamming – Some social media platforms block shortened links if overused. Use them wisely.
✔ Monitor & Update Links – Check analytics regularly and update links if needed.

Final Thoughts

Shortening URLs isn’t just about making links look neat—it’s a powerful way to track engagement, understand audience behavior, and improve marketing strategies. By using tools like Bit.ly, TinyURL, Rebrandly, and urqt.in, you can create professional links and monitor their performance like a pro!

Start shortening your URLs today and take control of your link tracking!