Add Page Numbers to PDF — Free & Instant
Number the pages of a PDF in one of 6 positions, as 1, 2, 3 or 1 / N, starting from any number you like.
Add page numbers automatically, choosing the position (six options), the number format and the starting number. Ideal for reports and documents that will be bound.
How to add page numbers to a PDF (3 steps)
- Open your PDF.
- Choose the position, format (1, 2, 3 or 1 / N) and starting number.
- Apply the numbers and download.
Choosing the right settings
- Format: 1, 2, 3 or 1 / N — for documents you submit, 1 / N shows the recipient at once whether every page is there.
- Position: top or bottom, each left, center or right — bottom center is what most readers expect.
- Start at any number — if this file continues an earlier one, start from the next number.
- Adjustable size — 10–12 suits most documents; go slightly larger for printing and binding.
Numbers sit about 1 cm from the page edge in dark grey rather than black, so they don't compete with the content and stay within reach of most printers.
What if the document already has page numbers?
Existing numbers aren't removed; new ones are added, and if both sit in the same spot they overlap. Pick a different position (say, bottom right if the old ones are bottom center), or, to keep a single set, trim the bottom margin with the crop tool first.
Common uses
- Files merged from several people — number everything once as a single, continuous set.
- Supporting documents referenced by page — "see attached pages 3–5" only works if pages are numbered.
- Reports or theses exported from several programs — cover, body and appendices numbered once after merging.
- Old scans without page numbers — number them before filing so they can be referenced.
- Files for printing and binding — loose pages can be put back in order.
Good to know before you start
- Every page is numbered, including the cover — to skip it, split the cover off, number the rest from 1, then merge it back.
- Landscape pages — the number follows that page's own edges, so in a portrait document it appears on the side when you turn the page.
- Arabic numerals only — Thai and Roman numerals aren't supported yet.
- Number pages last — reorder pages afterwards and the numbers will be out of sequence.
- Digital signatures lose certification — add numbers first, then sign.
FAQ
Can I skip the cover page?
Every page gets a number. Split the cover off first, number the content starting at 1, then merge the cover back.
What does the 1/N format mean?
Current page over total pages, for example 3/20.
Will the numbers cover my content?
They go in the page margin, which is normally empty, and you can choose a corner clear of the content.
Can I use Roman or Thai numerals?
Not yet; only Arabic numerals. Add other numerals in the original program before exporting to PDF.
Can I start counting from a number other than 1?
Yes. If the previous file ends on page 40, start this one at 41.
Does adding numbers change the file size?
Barely. Only the numbers and a small font are added; existing content isn't converted or compressed.