How to Add Page Numbers to a PDF
Learn how to add page numbers to any PDF for free. Choose position, starting number, and font size — processed entirely in your browser.
Adding page numbers to a PDF makes documents easier to navigate, reference, and print. Whether you have merged multiple files or need to prepare a report for distribution, automatic page numbering saves time.
Step-by-Step: Add Page Numbers
Step 1: Open Add Page Numbers to PDF.
Step 2: Upload your PDF.
Step 3: Configure your options:
- Position — Choose from 6 positions: top-left, top-center, top-right, bottom-left, bottom-center, bottom-right
- Starting number — Set the first page number (useful for documents that start at page 3, for example)
- Font size — Adjust the size to match your document style
Step 4: Click "Add Page Numbers" and download the result.
Tips for Professional Page Numbering
- Bottom-center is the most common position for reports and books
- Top-right works well for business documents and proposals
- Start at page 2 if your document has a cover page
- Use a small font size (8–10pt) for a subtle, professional look
- Merge first, then number — If combining multiple PDFs with Merge PDF, add page numbers after merging for continuous numbering
Combine with Other Tools
Page numbers work best as part of a document preparation workflow:
- Merge PDF — Combine individual files
- Organize PDF — Reorder pages as needed
- Add Page Numbers — Apply consecutive numbering
- Watermark PDF — Add "DRAFT" or "CONFIDENTIAL" if needed
- Compress PDF — Reduce file size for sharing