Add Page Numbers
Add customisable page numbers to any PDF
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How to add page numbers to a PDF
Page numbers make documents easier to navigate, reference, and print. PDFRift embeds customisable page numbers directly into each page of your PDF — position them at the top or bottom, left, centre, or right, and choose your preferred format. The entire process happens in your browser.
Step-by-step
- Upload your PDF above.
- Choose the position (top/bottom) and alignment (left/centre/right) of the page numbers.
- Select a numbering format and click "Add page numbers" to generate the updated PDF.
Why add page numbers in the browser?
Adding page numbers is a common task for reports, manuals, and academic papers. Desktop software like Adobe Acrobat can do it, but it is expensive. Free online tools require uploading your file. PDFRift provides a fast, free, and private alternative by running pdf-lib in your browser — your document stays on your device throughout.
Common use cases
Academic submissions
Many universities and journals require numbered pages. Add them quickly before submitting your thesis or paper.
Business reports
Number the pages of a quarterly report, project proposal, or board pack so readers can reference specific pages during meetings.
Legal and compliance documents
Numbered pages help with document authenticity and make it easier to cite specific sections during reviews or audits.
Tips for page numbering
- If your document has a cover page, consider starting the numbering from page 2 by using the start-offset option.
- Centre-bottom is the most common position for reports and books. Top-right is popular for legal documents.
- The font size is chosen to be readable without competing with your document content.
Frequently asked questions
Can I skip the first page?
Yes — use the start-page offset to begin numbering from whichever page you choose.
Can I change the font or size?
The current version uses a standard Helvetica font at a readable size. Custom font support is on our roadmap.
Will adding page numbers increase the file size?
Only marginally. Page numbers are lightweight text elements, so the increase is typically less than 1 %.