Page Number in Microsoft Word 2016

When you create a long document in Microsoft Word, adding page numbers helps keep everything organized. Whether you’re writing a school project, a report, or a book, page numbers make it easy for readers to find information. In Microsoft Word 2016, inserting page numbers is quick and simple.

What Are Page Numbers?

Page numbers are small numbers that appear at the top, bottom, or sides of each page in your document. They help identify the order of pages and make navigation easier. Word gives you several styles and positions to choose from, so you can match them with your document’s design.

How to Insert Page Numbers in Word 2016

Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to add page numbers to your document:

• Step 1: Select the Insert Tab
  Go to the Insert tab in the ribbon at the top of your Word window.
• Step 2: Choose Page Number
  Click on the Page Number button in the “Header & Footer” group.
• Step 3: Pick a Location and Style
  You’ll see a dropdown list with options like “Top of Page,” “Bottom of Page,” or “Page Margins.” Choose your preferred location and select a style from the gallery that shows how the number will look.
• Step 4: Close the Header and Footer
  Once the page numbers appear, a “Header & Footer Tools” tab will open. Click the Close Header and Footer button to return to your main document.

How to Format Page Numbers

If you want to customize how your page numbers look or where they start, follow these steps:

• Step 1: Open Format Options
  Go to Insert > Page Number > Format Page Numbers. This opens the Page Number Format dialog box.
• Step 2: Change Number Format
  Under “Number format,” you can select how the numbers appear — like 1, 2, 3 or I, II, III or even A, B, C.
• Step 3: Set Starting Number
  If your document doesn’t start on page 1 (for example, after a cover page), you can change the starting number.
• Step 4: Exclude the First Page
  If you don’t want a number on your title page, go to the Header & Footer tab and check the option Different First Page.
• Step 5: Adjust Position
  To move your page number left, right, or center, double-click the header or footer area. Select the page number and use the Tab key to align it properly.

Why Use Page Numbers?

• They make your document look professional.
• They help readers follow along easily.
• They are essential for long projects, reports, and books.
• They assist in easy editing and reviewing.

5 FAQs of Page Number in Microsoft Word 2016

1. Can I remove page numbers from a single page?

Yes. You can insert a section break and unlink that section’s header or footer, then delete the page number from that part.

2. How do I start numbering from page 2 instead of page 1?

Go to the Header & Footer tab and select “Different First Page.” This skips numbering on the first page.

3. Can I use Roman numerals for the first few pages?

Yes. Open “Format Page Numbers” and choose the Roman numeral option under Number format.

4. My page number is missing on some pages. What should I do?

This can happen if sections are unlinked. Check the “Link to Previous” button under the Header & Footer tab and enable it if needed.

5. How can I add “Page X of Y” format?

In the footer, insert “Page Number” and then use “Number of Pages” to show both current and total page count.

Conclusion

Adding page numbers in Microsoft Word 2016 is a simple yet powerful way to organize your document. With just a few clicks, you can insert, format, and style your page numbers to make your work look professional and neat. Once you get familiar with these steps, managing page numbers will become second nature. It’s one of those small things that make a big difference in presenting a clean and polished document.