How do I create a numbered list in Notion?

Creating numbered lists in Notion requires just a few keystrokes, but mastering the different methods can significantly boost your productivity. Whether you're organizing project steps, documenting processes, or building structured workflows, Notion offers three reliable approaches that work seamlessly across desktop and mobile platforms. The most efficient method depends on your device and personal preferences, though each approach delivers the same powerful result: dynamic, automatically renumbered lists that adapt as you reorganize content.

The fastest approach on desktop involves keyboard shortcuts—simply press Ctrl + Shift + 6 on Windows or Cmd + Shift + 6 on Mac to instantly transform your current line into a numbered list. This method excels when you're already typing and want to maintain your workflow momentum. Alternatively, you can use Notion's slash command system by typing "/numbered list" or "/num" anywhere in your document, which works consistently across all platforms including mobile devices where keyboard shortcuts aren't available.

For those who prefer visual navigation, clicking the plus button or block handle on the left side of any line opens Notion's block menu, where you can select "Numbered List" directly. This approach proves particularly valuable when converting existing content or when you're still familiarizing yourself with Notion's shortcuts. Mobile users will find this method most reliable, as touch interfaces don't support the keyboard combinations available on desktop.

Notion's numbered lists shine through their intelligent auto-renumbering feature—when you drag items to reorder them, the numbers automatically update to maintain sequence integrity. You can create nested sublists by pressing Tab after starting a new item on desktop, or using the indent option after long-pressing items on mobile. This flexibility makes numbered lists perfect for complex project hierarchies and detailed process documentation.

However, there are some limitations to consider. Notion doesn't support inline numbered lists within paragraphs, and you can't create true lists within table cells, though you can work around this with multi-select properties or manual formatting. Additionally, mobile users may find the nesting process slightly more cumbersome due to touch interface constraints. Despite these minor limitations, numbered lists remain one of Notion's most reliable organizational tools, offering the perfect balance of simplicity and functionality for users who need structured, sequential content.