Add Page Numbers to PDF
Number the pages of a PDF that was merged, scanned or exported without them — so a printed copy can be put back in order and a reviewer can say "page 7" and be understood.
- up to 200 MB per file
- Never uploaded
What Add Page Numbers does
Page numbers are the first thing lost when a document is assembled from parts. Merge three PDFs and each keeps its own numbering, or none; scan a stack of paper and the pages have nothing at all; export slides and the deck's numbering means nothing once it is printed and dropped. This tool stamps a single consistent sequence onto every page, in the margin, in a plain grey Helvetica that reads as part of the document rather than a sticker on it. It does not touch what is already on the page — an existing footer stays where it was, so if the document already has numbers in one corner, put the new ones in another or at the top.
When you'd use it
- A merged PDF whose sources each started at page 1
- A thesis or report that must be numbered for binding
- Handouts where people need to refer to a page
How it works
- 01
Upload the PDF
Merged, scanned or exported — any PDF works.
- 02
Pick position and format
Bottom centre is the default; change the format or start number if you need to.
- 03
Download
Every page carries its number in the same place.
Formats and limits
- Accepts
- .pdf — a password-protected PDF needs its password, or Unlock PDF first
- Produces
- Numbered PDF
- Files per run
- One
- Size limit
- 200 MB per file
Limitations
- Numbers are stamped as new text in the margin position you choose; if the page already prints its own numbers, both will show.
- Numbering uses one font and size for the whole document; per-section numbering (i, ii, iii then 1, 2, 3) is not supported.
Questions
Can I start from a number other than 1?
Yes. Set the start number — useful when this file is the second half of a larger document and should begin at page 41.
Will the numbers cover existing content?
They sit 1 cm from the edge in the margin most documents leave empty. If a page has content right to the edge, choose a different position.
Does it work on scanned PDFs?
Yes. The number is drawn on top of the page, so it does not matter whether the page is text or an image.
Which format should I choose?
'1, 2, 3' is right for most things. 'Page 1 of 12' is what reviewers and printers prefer because a missing page is obvious. '1 / 12' is the compact version of the same idea.
Can I number only some pages?
Every page is numbered, because a partial sequence is more confusing than none. If you need a cover page without a number, extract it, number the rest, and merge the cover back on the front.
Will the numbers print?
Yes. They are drawn into the page content, not added as an annotation, so they print, appear in every viewer and survive further conversion.
What happens to your file
Your file is never uploaded or stored.
Full detail in the Privacy Policy.
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