Easy Tech TutsHow to Put Page Numbers in Google Docs Starting from a Specific Page Easily 2026
By Impran M N
If you don't want your title page or introduction counted in your page numbers, Google Docs can handle that with section breaks. This guide covers isolating your intro pages, unlinking the header, and setting a custom starting number so your document paginates correctly.
01Identify where numbering should start
Decide which page marks the beginning of your core content, separate from any title or intro pages.
02Insert a Section Break (Next Page)
Use the Insert menu's Break panel to add a Section Break that isolates your intro pages from the rest of the document.
03Open the target page's header or footer
Navigate into the footer of your first numbered page to access its section-specific properties.
04Turn off Link to Previous
Disable the Link to Previous setting so this section's numbering is independent from earlier pages.
05Set the starting number
Use the Page Numbers wizard to insert numbering and set the starting index, then check the first-page checkbox to hide numbers on a cover page.
Frequently asked questions
How do I skip my title page in the page count?
Insert a Section Break (Next Page) before your first numbered page, then disable Link to Previous so numbering starts fresh.
Can I make my content start at page 1 even if it's technically page 3?
Yes, the Page Numbers wizard lets you override the starting index so your content begins numbering at 1.
Why do my new numbers still match the earlier section?
This usually means Link to Previous is still enabled, which keeps the sections tied together.
Can I hide the number on my cover page only?
Yes, there's a checkbox option for a unique first page that hides numbering just on the cover.
Watch the full walkthrough
The same steps, demonstrated on screen from start to finish.
