Should I update old blog posts?
When an update is worth it
Look for posts that still get visits but have outdated details, broken links or weak introductions. A refresh can make a post more accurate and more helpful for the reader. Posts that rank for useful searches are often the best candidates.
Also update posts when the topic changes, such as a new product version or a changed rule. Add a short note with the date of the update so readers know the information is current.
- Start with posts that already get traffic
- Fix outdated facts and broken links
- Add a note with the update date
- Improve weak introductions and headings
How to make the update count
Read the post as a stranger would. Ask whether the first paragraph answers the reader's question quickly. Replace vague sections with specific examples or steps, and cut anything that repeats itself.
Keep the original URL when possible so existing links still work. If you must change a URL, set up a redirect so readers and search engines land in the right place.
- Read it as a new visitor would
- Replace vague sections with examples
- Keep URLs stable when possible
- Set up redirects if a URL must change
Common mistakes
- Changing the URL without setting up a redirect.
- Updating a post but forgetting to change the date or add a note.
- Spending hours on posts that get almost no traffic.
