Why number your pages
Page numbers make long documents usable: reviewers can say “see page 14”, printed copies can be put back in order, and legal bundles, theses and reports often require them. Documents assembled from several files – a merged application pack or a scanned contract – usually have no numbers or a confusing mix. This add page numbers to PDF tool stamps consistent numbers on every page in a few seconds.
Position
Choose where the numbers appear:
- Bottom centre – the most common choice for reports and letters.
- Bottom right / Bottom left.
- Top centre, Top right, Top left – useful when the bottom of pages already has a footer or form fields.
- Bottom outside (books) – odd pages are numbered at the bottom right and even pages at the bottom left, so numbers sit on the outer edge of a double-sided, bound document.
Distance from edge (pt) sets how far the number sits from the page edge. The default is 28 pt, about 1 cm; increase it if your printer trims or cannot print close to the edge.
Format
Pick a ready-made format:
| Format | Example on page 3 of 10 |
|---|---|
1 | 3 |
Page 1 | Page 3 |
1 / 10 | 3 / 10 |
Page 1 of 10 | Page 3 of 10 |
- 1 - | - 3 - |
| Custom… | anything you type |
With Custom…, type your own pattern in Custom format, using {n} for the page number and {t} for the total. Examples: Appendix B – {n}, {n} of {t}, Exhibit 4, p. {n}.
Font size (pt) defaults to 11 pt, matching typical body text. Use 9–10 pt for discreet numbers, 12–14 pt for documents read on screen.
Skipping pages and starting numbers
Skip first pages leaves the first pages unnumbered – set it to 1 to leave a cover unnumbered, or 3 to skip a cover, title page and contents page. The total {t} counts only the numbered pages, adjusted by the first number.
First number sets where counting starts. If you are numbering chapter 3 of a book that begins on page 41, set First number to 41. Combined with skipping, this lets you follow conventions such as “cover unnumbered, introduction starts at 1”.
A typical workflow
- Combine your documents with Merge PDF.
- Remove or reorder pages with Organize PDF.
- Add page numbers here, skipping the cover.
- Mark drafts with Watermark PDF if needed.
- Shrink for email with Compress PDF.
Doing the numbering last ensures numbers match the final page order.
Legal bundles and exhibits
Court bundles and exhibit packs often need continuous numbering across several documents. Merge everything first, then number once. If each exhibit must carry its own label, number each file with a Custom format like Exhibit A – {n} before merging.
Things to check
- Existing footers: if pages already have text at the bottom, choose a top position or increase the distance from the edge so numbers do not overlap.
- Mixed page sizes: numbers are positioned relative to each page’s own size and rotation, so A4 and Letter pages in one file both look right.
- Characters: standard Latin letters, digits and common punctuation are supported in custom formats; unusual symbols may be replaced.
Password-protected PDFs
If the PDF is encrypted, unlock it first with Unlock PDF using its password.
Privacy
Numbering happens entirely on your device, so confidential reports, legal documents and dissertations are never uploaded.
Frequently asked questions
How do I add page numbers to a PDF for free?
Add the PDF, choose where the number goes and its format, then press Add page numbers. The numbered PDF downloads straight away – no watermark or account.
How do I skip the cover page?
Set Skip first pages to 1. The cover gets no number and numbering starts on the next page.
Can I start numbering at a number other than 1?
Yes. Set First number – for example 5 if this PDF is a chapter that starts on page 5 of a larger document.
What does Bottom outside (books) mean?
Numbers alternate between the bottom right on odd pages and bottom left on even pages, so they sit on the outer edge when the pages are printed double-sided and bound.
Can I write Page 1 of 10?
Yes, choose Page 1 of 10, or choose Custom and use {n} for the page number and {t} for the total, for example Section A – {n}/{t}.
Does it change the rest of the page?
No. The number is drawn on top of the existing page; text and images are untouched and stay selectable.
Is my document uploaded?
No. Numbers are added in your browser with pdf-lib.