About Add Page Numbers
Add Page Numbers writes a page number on every page of your PDF. Pick one of six positions, choose a format, set the font size and margin, and decide where the count starts.
Numbered pages make long documents easier to discuss ("see page 14"), easier to put back in order after printing, and easier to cite. Many universities, courts and tender processes require page numbers on every submitted page.
Custom formats let you write Page 3 of 20, 3 / 20, or something like "Appendix B, page 3".
How to use Add Page Numbers
- Open the PDF you want to number.
- Click one of the six positions on the page diagram.
- Pick a format, or choose Custom and write your own with {n} and {total}.
- Set the starting number, font size and margin. Tick the box to skip the cover page.
- Click Add page numbers and download the file.
Six positions
Top or bottom, left, center or right.
Custom formats
Use {n} for the page and {total} for the count anywhere in your text.
Skip the cover
Leave the title page blank and start numbering on page two.
Rotation aware
Numbers land in the right corner even on pages that are turned.
Numbering conventions
Reports and books usually put numbers at the bottom center or the bottom outside corner. Legal filings often require bottom center. Slide decks exported as PDF look best with a small number in the bottom right.
Skipping the cover is common, and there are two conventions. In the first, the title page counts as page one but shows no number, so the second page shows 2. Tick Don't number the first page and set Start numbering at 2. In the second, numbering starts fresh after the cover, so the second page shows 1. Tick the box and keep Start numbering at 1. The start value always applies to the first page that gets a number.
Start numbering at a higher value when your PDF continues a document. If chapter two starts on page 37 of the full book, set the start to 37.
The numbers get drawn in Helvetica, a font every PDF reader has, in a dark gray that prints clearly without looking heavy. They become part of the page and print on every printer.
Tips for better results
- Number after merging and reordering, so the sequence runs through the final document.
- Use a 9 or 10 point font. Larger numbers draw attention away from the content.
- Increase the margin if your printer cuts off the numbers. 10 mm is safe for most printers.
- Use the Page {n} of {total} format for documents that people may print and shuffle.
Questions and answers
Can I start numbering from a number other than 1?
Yes. Set any start number, including 0.
Can I skip the first page?
Yes. Tick Don't number the first page.
Can I use Roman numerals?
Not at the moment. The tool writes Arabic numerals.
Will numbers overlap existing content?
They can if the page has content close to the edge. Adjust the margin or position to avoid it.
Is my file uploaded?
No. Numbering happens in your browser.