About adding page numbers
Page numbers make long documents easier to discuss, print and reference, and many submissions, such as theses, legal bundles and tender documents, require them. Four ready-made formats are available: just the number, the number with the total (1 of 9), the word Page with the number, and Page 1 of 9, which is the default. Custom lets you write your own, using {n} for the page number and {total} for the last number, for example - {n} -, {n}/{total} or Appendix A-{n}. Six positions cover the top and bottom of the page, at either side or the centre; the side follows the reading direction of your language. Facing pages swaps the side on even pages, so in a printed book the numbers sit on the outer edge of every spread. You can number just part of the file, for example from page 3 to page 40, and set the first number shown, for example 25 if this file follows a 24-page report. Skip first page leaves the cover page without a number and does not count it. The total is the last number shown, so with a skipped cover a 10-page file reads 1 of 9. Size, colour and the distance from the edge of the page, in millimetres, can all be changed. Numbers are added to the page itself, so they print and show in every reader. Labels in scripts the standard PDF fonts do not include, such as Arabic, Hindi or Chinese, are added as pictures of the words made on your device, with the numbers kept as text. If you plan to merge several files, merge them first and then number the result, so the numbering runs through the whole document.
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Add page numbers: frequently asked questions
How do I leave the cover page unnumbered?
Tick Skip first page. The cover gets no number and numbering carries on from the second page.
Can I start from a number other than 1?
Yes. Set the start number, for example 25 to continue on from another document.
Should I number before or after merging?
After. Merge your files first so the numbers run through the whole document.
Will the numbers cover my text?
They sit in the page margin, 10 mm from the edge by default. If your document has very narrow margins, change the distance or the position and check the preview.
Can I write my own format, such as - 1 - or Page 1 / 9?
Yes. Choose Custom and type the label, with {n} where the page number goes and {total} for the last number.