How to Add Page Numbers to a PDF
Published 2026-08-23 · FreePDFToolbox
Page numbers turn a pile of pages into a professional document. Here's how to add them in seconds — with position and format control.
Reports, contracts and theses all need page numbers. Adding them doesn't require a full editor — a dedicated tool does it in one pass.
Add page numbers in three steps
- Open Add Page Numbers to PDF.
- Choose the PDF.
- Set the position, starting number and format, then click NUMBER.
Every page gets its number drawn in place — no re-exporting, no layout disruption.
Format options
| Format | Example | Use when |
|---|---|---|
| Plain | 1, 2, 3 | Most documents |
| Page N | Page 3 | Formal reports |
| Dashed | - 3 - | Books, manuscripts |
| Roman | i, ii, iii | Front matter |
Choosing a position
- Bottom center — the default for most documents.
- Top right — common for business reports.
- Bottom right — works well with left-bound documents.
Skipping the title page
If page 1 is a cover page that shouldn't show a number:
- Start numbering at 0 so the cover shows no visible number... or
- Delete/keep the cover as-is, then run the tool — most users simply accept the number on the cover, or use a separate cover PDF merged afterward with Merge PDF.
Frequently asked questions
Can I add 'Page X of Y'?
Yes — use Add Header & Footer, which includes the total page count automatically.
What font is used?
A clean embedded standard font at a readable size — consistent across devices.
Does numbering work on scanned PDFs?
Yes — numbers are drawn on top of the page content.
Number your document now with Add Page Numbers to PDF.
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