Counting and displaying are different
A page can count in a sequence without showing a printed number, while the main text may start another sequence. Avoid fixing this by manually typing numbers into paragraphs or arbitrarily hiding them. Identify cover, abstract and chapter-opening requirements, including any requested Roman or Arabic numeral conventions.
Sections and orientation changes
A landscape table or appendix can require review of section, header and footer settings. Check whether numbering continues or restarts according to your plan. An unintended blank page or extra break can shift every later page number. Inspect the beginning of each part after saving.
Check exported pagination
Update contents after the document stabilizes, then compare chapter, table and appendix openings with the listed numbers. Check both Word and PDF; an editor page estimate may differ from final export. Changes to fonts, paper size or margins can alter line distribution and invalidate an earlier pagination review.
Pre-submission checklist
- Record starts and numeral schemes.
- Distinguish counted and displayed numbers.
- Check continuity between sections.
- Review unintended blank pages.
- Match contents to the final PDF.
Common questions
Should the cover show page 1?
There is no universal rule. Follow the receiving institution’s rules for counting and displaying the cover number.
Is the editor counter the final PDF page count?
Do not rely on it alone. Inspect the exported file after the last save and contents update.