Did anyone experience a "Uncaught ReferenceError: _gaq is not defined" error when using a custom script for event tracking on Webflow with Google Analytics?

Published on
September 22, 2023

Troubleshooting the "Uncaught ReferenceError: _gaq is not defined" Error in Webflow with Google Analytics

If you encounter the "Uncaught ReferenceError: _gaq is not defined" error while using a custom script for event tracking on Webflow with Google Analytics, there are a few potential causes and solutions you can try:

  1. Verify the Google Analytics tracking code: Double-check that you have correctly implemented the Google Analytics tracking code within your Webflow project. To do this:
  • Go to your Webflow project and navigate to the Project settings.
  • Open the Custom Code tab.
  • Confirm that the tracking code is placed within the Head Code section. If your tracking code is not present, you can add it here.
  • Save the changes and publish your site to see if the error persists.
  1. Check for conflicting scripts: Another possible reason for the error is a conflict between the custom event tracking script and other scripts or libraries loaded on your website. To troubleshoot this:
  • Inspect your website using the browser's developer tools and look for any JavaScript errors.
  • Check if you have any other scripts that might reference "_gaq" or interfere with the Google Analytics code.
  • Temporarily disable or remove the conflicting script(s) and test if the error still occurs.
  • If you find the conflicting script, consider modifying it to work harmoniously with the Google Analytics tracking code.
  1. Ensure correct placement of custom script: It's essential to place the custom script for event tracking in the appropriate location within Webflow. Here's how to do it:
  • In the Webflow Designer, select the element you want to track an event on.
  • Go to the Settings panel on the right-hand side.
  • Scroll down to the Custom Code section and choose the specific Event (e.g., "Click") you want to track.
  • Within the Custom Code area, paste your script for event tracking.
  • Save the changes and publish your site to see if the error is resolved.
  1. Ensure the event tracking script is error-free: Make sure that the event tracking script itself is free from any syntactical or logical errors. Even a small mistake, such as a missing semicolon or a typo, can lead to the "_gaq is not defined" error. Verify that the script is correct by comparing it with the documentation provided by Google Analytics or the third-party tracking service you are using.

By following these troubleshooting steps, you should be able to resolve the "Uncaught ReferenceError: _gaq is not defined" error and successfully implement your custom script for event tracking in Webflow with Google Analytics.

Additional questions:

  1. How do I add the Google Analytics tracking code to my Webflow project?
  2. What are some best practices for implementing event tracking in Webflow?
  3. How can I test if my event tracking script is working correctly in Webflow?