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The editorial decision
When reviewing a source, record both its publication date and the date of the event or data it describes. A newly updated article may still rely on an earlier announcement. Conversely, an older source may be the authoritative record for a historical event. Decide which date matters to the reader’s question. For current availability, use current confirmation; for explaining a past decision, preserve the historical timeline.
A working method
Build a short chronology when dates affect the interpretation. Include announcements, effective dates, implementation milestones and later corrections only where they are supported. Avoid using “today,” “recently” or “now” in evergreen content unless the reference point is unmistakable. When updating an article, say what changed rather than making the whole story appear newly reported. Check the visible date and any page metadata for consistency so the publication does not send conflicting signals about freshness.
Hypothetical example
A new commentary article discusses a partnership announced months earlier. The editor identifies the announcement date and checks whether implementation has since been confirmed. Readers can distinguish the historical agreement from the current operating status instead of assuming the new article means a new launch.
Make it practical.
Use this checklist as you read. Checks are not stored.References & further reading
Further reading: Google publication-date guidance ↗Published by Tap Tap Go. Product availability and eligibility vary by programme and market. About our stories.
