PDF guides · 2 min read

How to Add Page Numbers and a Watermark to a PDF

Number every page and stamp a word like DRAFT or CONFIDENTIAL across the document. Pick a style and position, then save.

Page numbers make a long document easy to refer to. A watermark tells readers the status of a file, such as DRAFT or CONFIDENTIAL. Both take under a minute.

Add page numbers

  1. Open the file in the WriteDroid PDF Editor.
  2. Open the More menu and choose Page numbers.
  3. Pick a style (1, Page 1, Page 1 of 5, 1 / 5), a position (top or bottom, left, centre or right), a size and the number to start from.
  4. Confirm. The preview shows on every page. Press Save PDF.

Start from a different number if this file continues another one. To remove numbers, open the same dialog and press Remove.

Add a watermark

  1. Open More and choose Watermark.
  2. Type the text, then set size, colour, angle and strength.
  3. Confirm and save. The watermark goes on every page.

Style tips

  • Use a light grey and a low strength so the text underneath stays readable.
  • A 45 degree angle is the classic look. Use 0 for a flat banner.
  • Keep the words short and in capitals.

Order of work

Do your edits, merges and deletions first. Then add numbers, so they count the final pages. See merging and splitting.

A note on watermarks

A watermark is a visible label, not a security lock. It discourages casual reuse but does not stop someone from cropping or editing it out. For private data, read how to redact a PDF properly.

Learn the rest of the toolbox in how to edit a PDF for free.

Common questions

Can I skip the first page? Not yet. Set Start at to a lower number, or extract the pages you want numbered first.

Can I use my own words? Yes, any short text works for the watermark.

Do numbers cover my content? Numbers sit in the margin. Pick top or bottom to avoid existing footers.

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