Adding ‘before:2023’ can enhance your Google web searches and get rid of AI-generated content

Since ChatGPT’s debut in November 2022, the digital landscape has witnessed an explosion in AI-generated content. While precise metrics on daily AI content production remain elusive, the pervasive influence of AI is evident. In a notable response, Google took action and deindexed 2 percent of sites in its March Update.

Fortunately, amidst the deluge of AI-generated content, resourceful users have discovered a workaround. A savvy Mastodon user shared a game-changing tip, suggesting appending “before:2023” to Google searches. This simple tweak promises users a divergence from AI-saturated results, offering a potentially more curated and relevant selection.

“If you have to do a Google Search, use “before:2023″ at the beginning of your search string. You can get a completely different (and IMO much more usable) set of results,” a Mastodon user said in a post, of which the link is longer resolving.

Fast forward a little over a month, the ripple effect of this insight traversed platforms, landing on X (formerly Twitter), where SpaceX founder and CEO Elon Musk acknowledged the issue, labeling it a genuine concern.

“It’s a real problem,” Musk said in a post on X

It’s a real problem! pic.twitter.com/WJYqoTzzSR

— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) April 18, 2024

Before:2023?

However, not all responses were uniformly positive. Critics, including voices on YCombinator, raised valid points against the “Before:2023” method. While it may refine search outcomes for some queries, detractors argue it compromises the core principle of delivering up-to-date information.

“I’m sure “before:2015” or “before:2010″ will improve them even more if you are only judging based on quality, but I’d wager almost everyone using the site wants up-to-date results, so this kinda defeats the purpose,” said Paxys in a post on YCombinator.

As the debate unfolds, the question lingers: Does sacrificing recency for quality truly serve the user’s intent? Share your thoughts; we’re eager to hear your perspective.