About the Add Page Numbers tool
This tool stamps page numbers onto a PDF, so a document that lacks them — a scan, an exported report, a set of merged files — gets clear, consistent pagination. Numbered pages are easier to reference, navigate, and print, and look more finished.
Position and style
You control where the numbers sit and how they read. There are six positions: along the bottom or the top, aligned left, centre, or right; bottom centre is the traditional default. The style can be plain numerals for a clean look, a count format such as 1 of 10 that shows the reader how much remains, or a labelled format like Page 1 for formal documents. These choices let the numbering match the tone of the document.
Starting number
Numbering does not have to begin at 1. You can set any starting number, which matters in two common situations: when a document is a continuation of another and should carry on the sequence, and when the opening pages are unnumbered front matter such as a cover or contents page and the real numbering should start later. Setting the start value handles both without extra editing.
Non-destructive stamping
The page numbers are drawn on top of each existing page. The original content underneath is not altered, re-compressed, or flattened — text remains selectable and graphics stay sharp. You are adding a layer, not rebuilding the document, so the result is your original PDF with numbers added cleanly.
Privacy and limits
PDFs up to 50 MB are accepted, and password-protected files must be unlocked first. Your file is uploaded securely, numbered on the server, and offered for download, then deleted within an hour. To add a watermark instead, use the Add Watermark tool; to combine files before numbering, use Merge PDF.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can the page numbers go?
Six positions: bottom or top, each in left, centre, or right. Bottom centre is the most common.
Can I change how the numbers look?
Yes. Choose plain numbers (1, 2, 3), a count style (1 of N), or labelled (Page 1).
Can I start numbering from a number other than 1?
Yes. Set the starting number — useful when the document continues from another, or when the first pages are unnumbered front matter.
Will adding numbers change the existing content?
No. The numbers are stamped on top of each page; the original text and graphics are untouched and stay selectable.
Can I number a protected PDF?
No. Remove the password first, as encrypted pages cannot be edited.