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.
