What is the WordPress Code Reference?

The WordPress Code Reference is a site that serves as the main source of information for anything WordPress. From plugins, to global variables, to modifying themes, there's plenty of guides and documentation available in regards to WordPress and its features.

the_date() Function

When using the the_date() function, it displays the date that the post was written. If used in a loop, it will only display one date, that being the most current date. This is true even if the_date() is called several times within a looping-function.

Parameters for the_date() Function

the_date() has several parameters that change the output of the function. Using $format converts it into a PHP date format. In addition, using $before or $after changes what date the function will retrieve. Using $display is a boolean value, which returns / echos the date.

Summary

In general, the WordPress Code Reference is a large collection of documentation that aims at providing information to others regarding all of WordPress' functionalities. In addition, the_date() specifically returns the most recent date of the recent post, and can have parameters inputted to change the result, or to test if a date was returned.