How to Add Page Numbers to PDF.

Graphic showing a PDF doc hovering in front of a laptop.

Add page numbers to your PDF to organise your document, allow people to easily find information, and demonstrate professionalism. Numbering your pages establishes the order, so it’ll be easy to share your document should you need to print it.

You can paginate PDFs in a few simple steps. Read on to find out how to do this in Adobe Acrobat Pro.

What You’ll Learn.

How to Add Page Numbers to PDF.

You’ll need a copy of Adobe Acrobat Pro to add pagination to your PDF document. Page numbers establish the order of your document, making it easier for the reader to navigate or refer back to particular information.

If you don’t have Acrobat Pro, you can still add page numbers, you’ll just need to access one of our online tools to do so.

How to Add Page Numbers in Adobe Acrobat Pro

To add PDF page numbering in Acrobat Pro, follow the below steps.

  1. Open your PDF in Acrobat Pro.

Screenshot showing a PDF open in Acrobat Pro, highlighting Edit PDF function.

  1. Select Tools > Edit PDF > Add Header + Footer > Add.

Screenshot showing the Tools screen options.

  1. In the top bar, you’ll have the option to choose the location of your page numbers within the header or footer.

  2. You’ll have the option to choose your preferred formatting options, including font choice, size and odd/even numbering on your document.

You can remove any numbering by following the same steps and tapping Remove rather than Add.

How to Add Page Numbers in Adobe PDF Editor

It’s possible to add pagination to your PDF using our online PDF Editor.

  1. Open your document in the online PDF Editor.

Screenshot showing where to open your document in the Adobe’s online PDF editor.

  1. Tap the Add Text tool to open the copy editor.

Screenshot showing the Adobe Online PDF Editor, highlighting the Text Tool under Add Content.

  1. Choose an area of the page to insert your pagination.
  2. You’ll have the option to adjust formatting, like font choice and size in the various dropdown menus.

What is Bates Numbering and How to Add Them to PDF.

Adding Bates Numbering can be done in a few simple steps.

What is Bates Numbering?

Bates Numbering (or Bates Stamping) is a way to easily index your pages for recovery later. This is important if your PDF has a lot of pages or is heavy on detail.

The Bates format works by assigning each page an individual identifier, such as:

A number is then typically applied as a prefix or suffix, such as 001/Date for efficient identification. You might encounter Bates Numbering in document-heavy industries, like the medical or legal sector.

How to add Bates Numbers in Adobe Acrobat Pro.

Follow these steps to add Bates Stamping to your document.

  1. Open the document in Adobe Acrobat Pro.
  2. Click Tools in the ribbon.
  3. Select Edit PDF.
  4. Select More.
  5. Choose Bates Numbering > Add.
  6. You’ll have the option to customise your numbering, choosing how your stamping is displayed.
  7. OK, your selection once you’re happy.

FAQs

How do I link page numbers to a PDF?

If you want to link to a specific page number in your PDF, then follow these instructions:

  • Edit your PDF. From the menu bar, select Edit PDF > Link > Add/Edit.
  • Select your link location. You’ll be prompted by a rectangle tool. Drag the rectangle in the area you want to create the link.
  • Create your link. Once selected you can choose your link’s appearance and select your link destination.
  • Select the link destination. Choose the destination for your link – to hyperlink within the document go to Page View and select Next to set the page number within your document.
Why can’t I add page numbers to a PDF?
You’ll need to add a header and footer to your PDF before you paginate PDFs.
Is it possible to add page numbers to a password-protected PDF?

Yes. You’ll need editing rights to make alterations like pagination and, of course, the password to access the document in the first place.

The creator of the PDF should provide the password when they share the document with you.

Can I customise where page numbers appear on a PDF?

Yes, you can customise how your pagination appears on a PDF. Once you’ve added your header or footer, you’ll see a range of formatting options along the same ribbon and dropdown.

Change where your numbers appear on the page, the font, size, and more.