Why Number Your Lines?
Line numbers make referencing and discussing content much easier. Whether you're sharing code snippets, reviewing documents, or creating instructional materials, numbered lines help everyone stay on the same page—literally.
Our Line Number Tool adds customizable numbering to any text, with options for formatting, separators, and padding for alignment.
Numbering Format Options
| Format | Example | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Simple | 1. Text here | Documents, lists |
| Padded | 001. Text here | Large files, alignment |
| Tab Separator | 1→ Text here | Spreadsheet import |
| Colon | 1: Text here | Code references |
| Brackets | [1] Text here | Citations, references |
💡 Alignment Tip
For files over 100 lines, use padded numbers (001, 002...) to keep text aligned. Without padding, line 10 would be offset from lines 1-9.
Common Use Cases
Code Review
"Check line 47" is much clearer than "look at that function somewhere in the middle." Line numbers are essential for collaborative code discussions.
Legal Documents
Legal briefs and court filings often require numbered lines for precise citations. Format with periods or colons for professional appearance.
Educational Materials
Worksheets, scripts, and study guides benefit from numbered lines that students can reference easily during discussions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should empty lines get numbers?
Usually yes—skipping empty lines would throw off references. If someone says "line 50," you want that to be unambiguous regardless of blank lines.
Can I start from a number other than 1?
Yes! Use the "Start from" option to begin numbering at any value. Useful for continuing numbering from a previous page or section.
How do I remove line numbers later?
Use our Remove Line Numbers tool, which strips common numbering formats automatically. It handles periods, colons, tabs, and bracket formats.
Technical Notes
- Unicode safe: Works with any language or character set
- Large files: Handles thousands of lines efficiently
- Custom separators: Use any character between number and text