How to Add Page Numbers to a PDF

Why add page numbers to a PDF?

Page numbers make long PDFs easier to navigate, reference and print. They are especially useful for reports, handbooks, submissions and documents that may be discussed by page number.

Adding numbering to the PDF itself also means the reference remains visible when the file is printed.

Want to try the idea yourself? Use the Add Page Numbers to PDF.

Choose where the number should appear

Common positions are the bottom centre, bottom corners or top corners. Choose a location that does not cover existing text, footers, logos or crop marks.

Check several different pages because margins and content may vary through the document.

If you want to explore this topic further, see How to Reorder Pages in a PDF.

Starting from a different number

Not every document should begin visibly with page 1 on its first PDF page. A cover may be unnumbered, or a PDF may be one section of a larger publication that needs to start at page 21.

If the tool supports a starting number or page range, set that before exporting.

PDF page position vs printed page number

The first page in a PDF viewer is always the first file page, but it may not be intended as printed page 1. Covers, contents pages and introductions often create this difference.

Decide which numbering system the finished document should use before adding numbers.

Add numbers and preview the result

The Add Page Numbers to PDF tool lets you position numbering and preview the document before saving it.

Check the first numbered page, a middle page and the final page to make sure the sequence and placement are correct.