Add page numbers to a PDF

How to add page numbers to a PDF

The tool writes a short line of text on each page you choose, at a fixed distance from the edge. Rotated pages (90 or 270 degrees) are handled, so the number stays readable and sits where you expect.

1. Place the number with the six arrows (top or bottom, left, center or right).
2. Pick a format: "3", "Page 3", "3 of 10", or your own template using {n} and {total}.
3. Set the first numbered page, the starting number, size, color and margin.
4. Apply, and the file downloads on its own.

\[ \text{number shown} = \text{starting number} + (\text{page} - \text{first numbered page}) \]

Skip the cover page

A thesis or report usually has no number on the cover. The "Skip the first page" button starts numbering at page 2. The first-number field decides whether page 2 reads "1" or "2": keep 1 to restart after the cover, or use 2 so the number matches the page's real position.

Roman numerals, double-sided pages and useful formats

Roman numerals (i, ii, iii or I, II, III) are the usual choice for a preface or front matter. The "mirror" option puts the number on the outside edge of a double-sided print: right on odd pages, left on even pages. The "3 of 10" format also shows the total, which helps you spot a missing sheet after printing.

Add page numbers to PDF files: common uses

When you add page numbers to PDF files, you usually want a document that stays in order. A page number prevents mix-ups and makes cross-references easy. Here are the most common cases.

• Thesis or report: first, the table of contents can point to exact pages.
• Application packet: next, the reviewer can cite pages without guessing.
• Contract: for example, "Page 3 of 10" proves no sheet is missing.
• Printed handout: then every student finds the right page in class.

So before you send your file, take two minutes and add page numbers to PDF pages.

How to add page numbers to PDF files step by step

1. First, drop your file. It can weigh up to 200 MB.
2. Next, pick the position with the six arrows.
3. Then choose the format, for example "Page 3 of 10".
4. After that, set the first numbered page and the starting number.
5. Finally, check the preview and click Apply.

If you want to add page numbers to PDF pages with your own wording, type a template. For example, "Page {n} of {total}" gives "Page 3 of 10". Then the tool swaps in {n} and {total} for you. Whenever you add page numbers to PDF files for school, keep the style plain.

Mistakes to avoid when you add page numbers to PDF files

Then, to sort the sheets, use organize PDF. To straighten a sideways page, try rotate PDF. To trim the margins before numbering, open crop PDF.

Layout tips when you add page numbers to PDF documents

• Pick bottom center for a report, since it is the classic choice.
• On the other hand, pick bottom right for a document with columns.
• Keep the size between 10 and 12 points, because a huge number distracts.
• When the file prints on both sides, turn on the mirror option.
• Choose a dark, quiet color unless you want a bold effect.

Also, you can stamp a watermark before the numbering with add a watermark to PDF. To fix a word along the way, open edit PDF.

Finally, check the first and last page of the preview. If both look right, the rest follows. Once you add page numbers to PDF files, print one test sheet. Later, you can add page numbers to PDF copies of the same file with the same settings.