How to Add Page Numbers in Google Docs (2026)
Page numbers in Google Docs live in the header or footer and update automatically as you add or remove pages. Here’s the fast way, plus how to skip the first page and start at a custom number.
The Quick Way
- Go to Insert > Page numbers.
- A small panel shows four preset layouts:
- Number in the top-right, on every page
- Number in the top-right, skipping the first page
- Number in the bottom-right, on every page
- Number in the bottom-right, skipping the first page
- Click the one you want. The numbers appear and number every page automatically.
Skip the Page Number on the First Page
This is standard for title pages and cover sheets.
- Choose one of the presets that skips the first page in the panel above, or
- Go to Insert > Page numbers > More options, then uncheck Show on first page.
The first page stays blank; numbering begins on page 2 (and typically shows “2” — see below to start it at 1).
Start Numbering at a Specific Number
Useful when your document follows a title page or an existing section.
- Go to Insert > Page numbers > More options.
- Set Start at to your desired number (e.g.,
1to start the second page at 1, or0). - Click Apply.
Add “Page X of Y”
Google Docs doesn’t have a one-click “Page X of Y,” but you can build it:
- Double-click the footer to edit it.
- Type
Page, then go to Insert > Page numbers and insert the current number. - Type
of, then go to Insert > Page count to insert the total.
Result: Page 3 of 12, both values updating automatically.
Put Numbers in the Header vs. Footer
The presets place numbers at the top (header) or bottom (footer). To move existing numbers, double-click the header or footer, cut the number, and paste it into the other one. You can also change alignment (left/center/right) using the toolbar while your cursor is on the number.
Troubleshooting
The first page still shows a number
Double-click the header/footer, and in the options check Different first page — then delete the number from the first page only.
Numbers don’t appear on some pages
You may have multiple sections with different header/footer settings. Check each section’s footer, and confirm Link to previous is on if you want consistent numbering.
I want numbering to restart in a new section
Insert a section break (Insert > Break > Section break), then set a new Start at value for that section via More options.
Related Google Docs guides: How to add a table of contents · How to do a hanging indent · How to make columns · How to double space · How to add a border
Ready to automate your busywork?
Carly schedules, researches, and briefs you—so you can focus on what matters.
Get Carly Today →Or explore our free tools
