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Sequence control

How to restart Bates numbering correctly (When to Continue vs Restart)

Restarting Bates numbering is simple technically, but the decision matters: in some workflows you should restart, while in others you should continue from the next available number to avoid conflicts.

  • ■ Know when to restart and when to continue.
  • ■ Avoid duplicate page identifiers.
  • ■ Keep the format consistent when a sequence changes.
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Tip: Many PDF tools can stamp page numbers, but production workflows often need consistent Bates prefixes, padding, placement, and sequence control.

Example workflow

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Why this matters

Sequence mistakes are one of the easiest ways to create confusion in a numbered document set.

Duplicate IDs create confusion
If two pages carry the same Bates number, citation and review become harder immediately.
Gaps can cause doubt
Unexpected jumps in a sequence make teams wonder whether pages were missed or removed.
Continuity should be intentional
A restart or continuation should reflect the actual workflow, not an accidental default.

Common use cases

New matter or case
Restart when a completely separate numbering family is appropriate.
New production series
Restart only if the workflow clearly calls for a separate labeled sequence.
Rolling productions
Continue from the prior ending number rather than restarting.
Corrected outputs
Keep numbering decisions consistent when re-running or revising files.
Exhibit sets
Choose whether each exhibit family restarts or whether the packet uses one continuous sequence.
Internal SOPs
Define restart rules before production begins so staff do not guess.

FAQ

Should Bates numbering always restart for a new file?
No. Many workflows continue numbering across files.
When should I restart the sequence?
Usually when the new document set is intentionally separate from the earlier one.
What is the safer default for rolling productions?
Continuing from the prior ending number is often safer than restarting.
What should I avoid?
Accidental resets, duplicate page IDs, and inconsistent formatting across related sets.

Related Topics

How Bates Numbering Works Sequential Numbering PDF Best Practices Bates Numbering for Discovery Bates Numbering for Exhibits
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