How to show, hide, and customize measure numbers in Flat
Last updated September 17, 2026
Measure numbers in Flat label the bars of a score so a group can find a place in seconds. Flat prints them at every system by default and lets you show them on every measure or hide them altogether, shift the count past an anacrusis, and begin numbering from any number you choose.
Where do measure numbers appear?
Flat groups every option in the Measure numbers section of the Layout tab, in the left panel. In the Measure Numbers settings, you can decide where the measure numbers appear. They're usually shown at every system, but you have the option to display them at every measure or hide them altogether by choosing the option "never".
How do I start numbering after an anacrusis?
A pickup bar is conventionally left unnumbered, so the first full measure is bar 1. If you have an anacrusis in your score and want to start numbering the measures after the anacrusis, you can activate the option that will shift the measures numbers.
Can I start numbering at a number other than 1?
Yes. When you're working on projects with multiple files, e.g. different movements, you might want to begin numbering the measures from a number greater than 1. This way, it can match the structure and flow of your project better.
In the Measure Numbers block, you can choose to start the numbering at a different number by enabling Start numbering at ....
How do I remove measure numbers?
If you don't want measure numbering in your score, under the Measures Numbers settings, you need to enable the option never. The numbers disappear from the whole score, and the setting is reversible at any time.
Frequently asked questions
Why is my first measure numbered 1 when it is a pickup?
Because the anacrusis shift is off. A pickup bar is normally left out of the count, so enable the option that shifts the measure numbers past the anacrusis and Flat will label the first complete bar as measure 1 instead.
How do I number a movement that continues from another file?
Enable Start numbering at ... in the Measure Numbers block and enter the bar number the movement begins on. This is what the setting is for: several files that belong to one project keep a single continuous numbering across them.
Can I show a number on every measure?
Yes. The numbering policy offers every system, every measure, or never. Numbering every measure is common for rehearsal-heavy material and study scores, though it adds a lot of small text to a dense page.
Do measure numbers appear on printed parts too?
Measure numbering is a layout setting on the score, so it applies to what Flat engraves and therefore to what you print or export. Change the policy before printing if a part needs different numbering from the one you use on screen.