Google Docs: Customize Headers and Footers

Google Docs headers and footers have added functionality making it easier to use Docs for MLA and APA formatting, creating documents where page numbers start on page two, and having a title page without page numbers, headers, or footers.

Add Page Numbers to your Document

Adding page numbers to your document is easy.  Simply choose Insert -> Page number

There are four Page number choices:

1. Add page numbers to the top of page.  First page should be numbered.
2. Add page numbers to the top of page.  Do not number first page.
3. Add page numbers to the bottom of the page.  First page should be numbered.
4. Add page numbers to the bottom of page.  Do not number first page.

Select the option that best meets your needs.

For example, I selected the first option (see image below).  My page number was added to the top of page, including page 1.  

 

Different First Page Header/Footer

In the image above, notice the checkbox which allows you to have a different header/footer on the first page of your document.  This is perfect for a title page and is a must when using APA formatting.  When you check the box, any content in the header/footer will be removed for page one.  You may add new content as you see fit.