Add page numbers to PDF files such as a project report, thesis, application packet or legal document, so readers can find and refer to every page. Choose where the numbers go and how they look, with the cover page left blank if you like. Finished? Stamp PDF pages with a watermark, or password protect PDF copies before you share them.
How to add page numbers to PDF
- Select the PDF.
- Choose the position (for example bottom centre) and the style (1, Page 1, 1 of 10…).
- Set the size, the first number, and whether the first page is a cover without a number.
- Tap “Add page numbers” to number PDF pages, then download the numbered PDF.
Tips for best results
- Number pages after merging and reordering, so the numbers follow the final order of the document.
- Bottom centre is the most common position for reports and theses. Bottom right suits documents that are flipped through like a book.
- For a document with a separate cover page, tick “No number on the first page” and start counting at 1 on the second page.
Frequently asked questions
Can I start numbering from a number other than 1?
Yes. Set “First number”, for example 5 if this PDF continues another document. With the cover skipped, the second page gets your first number.
What does “1 of 10” count when the cover is skipped?
Only the numbered pages. A 10-page PDF with a cover shows 1 of 9 to 9 of 9, which is how most reports are numbered.
Do numbers appear correctly on landscape or rotated pages?
Yes. The position is worked out from the page as you see it, so the number is upright at the bottom of a landscape page too.
Will the numbers cover my content?
They sit 24 points (about 8 mm) from the edge, where most documents have a margin. If your pages have content right to the edge, choose a top position or the small size.
Can I use Hindi numerals?
Not yet. Page numbers use standard digits (1, 2, 3). For text in other scripts, the watermark tool supports any language.
Related tools
- Add Watermark to PDFStamp text like CONFIDENTIAL on every page, in any language.
- Merge PDFCombine several PDF files into one, in any order.
- Reorder PDF PagesDrag to rearrange the pages of a PDF.
- Sign PDFDraw or upload your signature and place it on a PDF.
- Compress PDFReduce PDF size losslessly or to any target in KB or MB.