Easy Tech TutsHow to Add Page Numbers in Google Docs Easily 2026
By Impran M N
Manually tracking page order in a long document is a waste of time when Google Docs can handle it automatically. This guide covers inserting page numbers through the Insert menu, choosing between header and footer placement, and skipping numbering on your title page. You'll also see how to set custom starting numbers for more advanced document structures.
01Open the Page numbers panel
Go to Insert, then Page numbers, to open the configuration panel where you'll choose your placement and style.
02Choose header or footer placement
Pick a standard preset, such as top-right header or bottom-right footer, depending on how you want your numbering to appear.
03Skip numbering on the first page
Turn on Different first page so your title page or cover sheet doesn't display a page number while the rest of the document continues sequentially.
04Set a custom start number
Open More options in the Page numbers dialog to define a custom starting number or restrict numbering to a specific section.
05Style your page numbers
Adjust the font size, color, and alignment of the page number text so it complements the rest of your document's typography.
Frequently asked questions
How do I hide the page number on my title page only?
Enable the Different first page setting in your header or footer options, which removes numbering from just the first page while keeping it on the rest.
Can I start page numbering from a number other than 1?
Yes, open More options under Page numbers and set your desired starting number for the section.
Do page numbers update automatically if I add or remove content?
Yes, page numbers recalculate automatically as your document's length changes, so you don't need to update them manually.
Can I place page numbers in the top left instead of the top right?
The built-in presets focus on standard header and footer corners, but you can manually reposition the number text box if you need a different placement.
Watch the full walkthrough
The same steps, demonstrated on screen from start to finish.
