How to add page numbers to a PDF
- Drop a PDF into the box above, or choose one.
- Pick a position and a format, and check the preview of the first numbered page.
- Optionally, choose the first number, font size, margin and which pages to number.
- Select the button to number the pages, then download the PDF.
Number formats
| Format | Page 3 of a 12-page PDF | Often used for |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 3 | Books, theses and reports |
| Page 1 | Page 3 | Letters and handouts |
| Page 1 of 9 | Page 3 of 12 | Contracts and forms, where missing pages must be obvious |
| 1 / 9 | 3 / 12 | Slides and compact footers |
Skipping pages
Choose From a page to leave a cover or contents page unnumbered, or Custom to number only certain pages, written like 3-10, 12. Numbers count up across the pages you choose, starting from the first number you set, so skipped pages don't use up numbers.
Common uses
- Printing a long report. Numbered pages are easy to put back in order after printing, and readers can refer to “page 12” in a meeting.
- Thesis or assignment submission. Universities often ask for numbered pages. Start from page 2 to leave the title page clean, and choose bottom centre for a classic look.
- Bundles of merged documents. After merging several files into one, add Page 1 of N numbering so every page in the bundle has a clear place.
- Legal and tender documents. Submissions often require every page to be numbered. Number the whole PDF in seconds instead of editing each source file.