Written by Allen Wyatt (last updated September 26, 2020)
This tip applies to Word 2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, and 2021
There are many types of documents that require the use of line numbers. Typically, this is done for legal documents. For instance, each line of a legal contract may need to be numbered. Word allows you to easily add line numbers to your document. This is done in the following manner:
Figure 1. The Layout tab of the Page Setup dialog box.
Figure 2. The Line Numbers dialog box.
You should note that you can only see line numbers when working in Print Layout view. If you are working in one of the other views, then the line numbers are hidden. In addition, Word adds line numbers only to the text in the main document. It won't add them to other elements, such as tables or text in shapes or text boxes.
WordTips is your source for cost-effective Microsoft Word training. (Microsoft Word is the most popular word processing software in the world.) This tip (8795) applies to Microsoft Word 2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, and 2021. You can find a version of this tip for the older menu interface of Word here: Adding Line Numbers.
Comprehensive VBA Guide Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) is the language used for writing macros in all Office programs. This complete guide shows both professionals and novices how to master VBA in order to customize the entire Office suite for their needs. Check out Mastering VBA for Office 2010 today!
Line numbers are an important part of some documents, such as those prepared in the legal profession. If you want to ...
Discover MoreNeed to add line numbers to a document? Word provides an easy way to add them, but some of the controls that configure ...
Discover MoreIf you've added line numbers to your document, at some point you may want them turned off. Here's how to disable line ...
Discover MoreFREE SERVICE: Get tips like this every week in WordTips, a free productivity newsletter. Enter your address and click "Subscribe."
There are currently no comments for this tip. (Be the first to leave your comment—just use the simple form above!)
Got a version of Word that uses the ribbon interface (Word 2007 or later)? This site is for you! If you use an earlier version of Word, visit our WordTips site focusing on the menu interface.
Visit the WordTips channel on YouTube
FREE SERVICE: Get tips like this every week in WordTips, a free productivity newsletter. Enter your address and click "Subscribe."
Copyright © 2025 Sharon Parq Associates, Inc.
Comments