Content Strategy · Answer

When should I update an old article?

Update an old article when its facts, screenshots, policy references or useful examples are outdated. Retain the same URL when the underlying subject has not changed. To apply this to your website, start with the specific page or setting involved. The old URL still resolves to accurate current guidance and previously useful links work. Follow the quick checks below or use the linked full guide for a more complete walkthrough.

A quick way to handle this

Start by confirming the live URL or record involved and what the visitor is trying to accomplish. Verify the current information, retaining still-useful explanations while updating obsolete steps or screenshots.

Keep the same URL when the topic remains the same; if it changes fundamentally, plan appropriate redirects.

Practical example

A 2024 domain-migration guide is revised for a changed registrar screen, without rewriting its original advice unnecessarily.

This is a hypothetical illustration; verify the facts and settings for your own website before applying it.

How to check the result

The old URL still resolves to accurate current guidance and previously useful links work.

Check the public version of the page, not only an editor preview. Record the affected URLs and whether any remaining issue needs a deeper review.

One mistake worth avoiding

Rewriting every sentence to appear fresh while losing accurate material that had helped readers.

Search engines choose their own ranking and indexing outcomes. Focus on producing an accurate, usable page rather than promising a particular placement.

Key takeaways

Export the old page's URL, title, queries and any important backlinks before making a major edit.
Keep the same URL when the topic remains the same; if it changes fundamentally, plan appropriate redirects.
The old URL still resolves to accurate current guidance and previously useful links work.