Add Page Numbers to a PDF
A bundle assembled from several files, a thesis, a contract to be referred to by page — all of them read better numbered. This draws a number onto every page, in the corner or edge you choose, and writes it into the document as real text. Nothing is re-rendered: the pages keep their size and the text already on them stays selectable and sharp.
Also known as: number PDF pages · add page numbers to PDF · PDF page numbering
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How to add page numbers to a PDF
Step 1
1. Add your PDF file
Drag your PDF file into the box, or choose it from your device. It can be up to 95 MB.
Step 2
2. Choose your settings
Adjust Position (Bottom centre) and Style (1), or keep the starting values in brackets, which suit most files. More are under Advanced options.
Step 3
3. Press Add page numbers
The work happens on our servers, and you can follow its progress.
Step 4
4. Download your PDF file
Your upload is already deleted, and the result is deleted after one hour.
Worth knowing
The number is drawn as real text in Helvetica, so it stays selectable and the file does not grow — but Helvetica covers Latin alphabets only. Every page is numbered; the starting figure continues a sequence rather than skipping a page, so a cover page is numbered too. The number reads upright on pages the document rotates. Password-protected PDFs are refused; Unlock PDF removes the password first (a PDF that only restricts printing or copying unlocks without one).
Why add page numbers to a PDF?
- Paginating a thesis or report before it goes to print
- Numbering a bundle assembled from several PDFs
- Adding references so a contract can be cited by page
- Numbering scanned paperwork before filing it
What changes
| Property | Before | After |
|---|---|---|
| Pages | As uploaded | Same count, same order |
| Page size | As uploaded | Unchanged |
| Page number | None | Drawn where you choose |
| Text | Selectable | Still selectable |
Frequently asked questions
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