Number PDF pages in any corner
Page numbers make a long document usable. Readers can cite a specific page, reviewers can point to a problem, and anyone who prints the file can put loose sheets back in order. Many PDFs, especially those merged from several sources or exported from design apps, arrive with no numbering at all. This tool stamps a clear number onto each page in a few seconds.
You decide where the number sits, how it reads, where counting starts and how big it appears. The rest of each page is left exactly as it was.
Who needs page numbering
- Students and researchers submitting theses or papers that must follow numbering guidelines.
- Legal professionals preparing court bundles and exhibits where every page needs a reference.
- Businesses sending proposals and reports that reviewers will discuss page by page.
- Anyone who merges files. A document built with Merge PDF usually has inconsistent or missing numbers, and a single pass fixes that.
- Print shops and self-publishers who need numbered proofs before binding.
Choosing a format and position
The built-in formats cover most needs. A plain number is minimal and works well at bottom center. 'Page 1 of 10' tells readers how long the document is, which helps with contracts and forms. '1 / 10' is a compact version of the same idea.
The 'Custom format' field lets you write your own label using the number and total placeholders described in the hint beneath it. That makes it possible to add a prefix like a chapter letter, a document code or the word Appendix.
Pick a position that avoids existing content. Many documents already have a logo or footer text at bottom center, in which case bottom right is often cleaner. The 'Font size' slider runs from 6 to 24 points, and 10 to 12 points reads comfortably on standard paper.
Cover pages and continuing sequences
'Skip the first page' leaves the opening page unnumbered but still counts it. That matches how most printed reports work, where the cover is page 1 even though no number is shown. If you want the page after the cover to read 1, combine the switch with 'Start at' set to 0.
When a document continues from an earlier volume, set 'Start at' to the next number in the series, and the numbering picks up where the previous file ended.
Numbering that never leaves your device
The stamping is done by a JavaScript PDF engine running inside your browser tab. It opens your file from local memory, writes the number onto each page and saves a new PDF without ever sending the document over the network. That keeps confidential reports, legal bundles and personal records on your own hardware.
Once the page has loaded, the tool keeps working offline. It is free, needs no account, and adds nothing except the numbers you asked for.
Limitations
The same position, format and size apply to every numbered page. Roman numerals and alternating positions for odd and even pages are not available. Numbers are added as new text on top of the page, so they will not replace numbering that already exists in the document.
Related tools
For richer headers and footers with dates and file names, use Header & footer. To stamp DRAFT or CONFIDENTIAL across pages, try Watermark PDF. Fix the page order first with Organize PDF so the numbers follow the final sequence.
Frequently asked questions
How do I add page numbers to a PDF?
Add your file, choose a position and format, and click 'Add page numbers'. Every page is stamped with its number, and you download the finished PDF.
Can I use a format like 'Page 1 of 10'?
Yes. It is one of the built-in choices in the 'Format' menu. You can also pick '1 / 10', 'Page 1', or a plain number.
How do I create a custom page number format?
Type into the 'Custom format' field. Use {n} for the current number and {total} for the page count, for example 'Section A, p. {n}' or '{n} of {total}'.
How do I skip numbering on the cover page?
Turn on 'Skip the first page'. The cover stays clean, but it still counts, so the next page shows 2. If you want the second page to show 1, also set 'Start at' to 0.
Can I start numbering at a number other than 1?
Yes. Set 'Start at' to any value, such as 15 if this document continues from an earlier one. Every following page counts up from there.
Where can the page numbers go?
You can choose top left, top center, top right, bottom left, bottom center or bottom right. The same position is used on every numbered page.
Is my PDF uploaded to add numbers?
No. The numbers are drawn onto the pages by code running in your browser. Your document is never sent to a server.
Is there a size limit?
Each PDF can be up to 200 MB, and the tool is free with no sign-up. Very long documents take a little longer and use more memory.