# How to Number Pages in LibreOffice Writer

Canonical URL: https://en.libre-office.fr/article.php/how-to-number-pages-in-libreoffice-writer
Provider: stories
Type: story
Created: 2020-03-18T02:50:39+00:00

## Summary

Learn how to insert page numbers in LibreOffice Writer headers and footers using page number fields for clear document formatting.

## Content

This article explains how to number pages in LibreOffice Writer by inserting page numbers and associated information in the headers and footers of a document.

### Insert a Page Number Field

You need to place a page number field in a header or footer for that number to appear on each page and change from one page to the next.

The page number appears on a gray background indicating that it is a field; although visible on the screen, this background is not printed.

In LibreOffice Writer, a page number field is useful because it updates automatically. Once it is inserted in the header or footer, you do not need to type page numbers manually on every page.

### Layout: The Basics

Create a header or footer and then add a page number field

This basic layout method helps keep page numbers in the same place throughout the document. A header places the page number at the top of the page, while a footer places it at the bottom.

Using a header or footer is especially practical when preparing longer LibreOffice Writer documents, because the page number field changes from one page to the next automatically.

- Create or activate the header or footer where the number should appear.

- Insert the page number field in that header or footer.

- Check the document pages to confirm that the number appears and changes correctly.

The gray background visible behind the page number simply indicates that the content is a field. It is displayed on screen to help identify dynamic information, but it is not printed with the document.

See pages 8 and 9 of the PDF document below:

### FAQ: Page Numbers in LibreOffice Writer

#### Where should I insert a page number in LibreOffice Writer?

You should insert the page number field in a header or footer so that it appears on each page of the document.

#### Why does the page number have a gray background?

The gray background shows that the page number is a field. This background is visible on the screen but is not printed.

#### Do I need to type the number on every page?

No. When you use a page number field in a header or footer, the number changes automatically from one page to the next.

#### Can page numbers be placed at the top or bottom of the page?

Yes. Place the page number field in a header to show it at the top of the page, or in a footer to show it at the bottom.

### Conclusion

To number pages in LibreOffice Writer, create a header or footer and insert a page number field. The field updates from page to page, and the gray background only identifies the field on screen; it does not appear when printed.

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