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How many Google Maps API Keys do I need?

The Issue

I haven't actually seen this question addressed adequately anywhere.

I'm using a WordPress plugin that requires a Google Maps API Key. What I'm wondering, is can I use one API Key for all the websites and applications that I manage or do I need a separate API key for each property or app?

For instance, I was pleased to find that I only need one Google Webmaster Tools account which I can use to manage ALL my websites, including ones I've made for an am managing for others.

However, with Google Maps it's not that clear. Do I need a separate API Key for every application I make?

Where I've Looked For Answers So Far:

What I've pulled from those posts is that you can have multiple API keys, but you don't need any API keys, but there are many different flavors of Google Maps API keys (huh?) ... it's a bit confusing.

My Question

If I am making a website for clients A, B, & C does "client-a.com" need a different API Key than "client-b.com"?

Note

This question is not just about Google Maps, but that was the actual API that brought the confusion about.

Solution
    1. If I am making a website for clients A, B, & C does "client-a.com" need a different API Key than "client-b.com"?

    Typically, yes. You're going to whitelist the various maps API's on a per-domain basis. And you may be rate-limited. It's better for organizational purposes and if you need to pass on fees to a client if you're separating the keys.

    1. Are there any "go-to" plain-English docs (not tech-manual-ese like a Perl man-page) that explain with good examples (Sitepoint has a really good way of explaining things with conversational writing, and walking you through WHY we do things in programming, not just how) when and where to use API keys and which ones to use?

    Google just re-shuffled their Maps platform in a big way. It may take some time for the definitive third-party guides to be written. Here's their recent announcement.

    1. Can I let my friend borrow my API Key to build his app? What are the ramifications of doing such?

    Sure you can, but he may impact your rate limits.

    1. Can I use a Google Maps API key for any other Google app (docs, sheets, YouTube, G+, etc.)? Is a Google API key universal to all apps that integrate/interface with a Google product?

    It's just for Google Maps.