Page numbers are a small detail that makes a big difference. They make long documents easier to navigate, look more professional, and are often a requirement for academic or legal submissions. If you have a finished PDF without page numbers, you don't need to go back to the original source file. You can add them quickly with an online editor.
This guide shows you a simple, manual method for adding page numbers to any PDF for free.
Why Add Page Numbers?
- Navigation: Helps readers keep their place and refer to specific pages.
- Professionalism: It's a standard feature for reports, proposals, and any document longer than a few pages.
- Printing: Ensures that printed copies can be easily reassembled if the pages get mixed up.
How to Add Page Numbers Manually
While some advanced tools can automatically add page numbers to an entire document, this feature is often locked behind a paywall. However, you can achieve the same result in just a few minutes using the text tool in a free editor like Docento.app.
This method gives you complete control over the placement, size, and format.
Step 1: Upload Your PDF Open your PDF document in our online editor.
Step 2: Go to the First Page Navigate to the first page where you want the numbering to start. Use the thumbnail view on the left to easily jump between pages.
Step 3: Use the Text Tool
- Select the Text Tool from the toolbar.
- Click where you want the page number to appear (e.g., the bottom-right corner of the page).
- A text box will appear. Type "1" or "Page 1".
- Adjust the font size and position it perfectly.
Step 4: Repeat for Other Pages
- Go to the next page.
- Select the Text Tool again and click in the same position.
- Type "2" or "Page 2".
- Continue this process for all pages in your document. It's repetitive but quick, and it ensures every number is exactly where you want it.
Step 5: Export Your Document Once you've added a number to every page, click the "Export" button. Your newly numbered PDF will be saved to your computer, ready for sharing.
This manual method is a reliable and free way to add a professional touch to any PDF document. For other useful tips, learn how to fill out forms or add an image to your PDF.