How to Restore Previous and Next Page Navigation Arrows in PDFs
Question details
The user needs to find a way to restore or replace the missing previous and next page navigation arrows to improve document navigation.

- Product
- PDF Reader
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Reading or navigating through a multi-page PDF document.
- Observed behavior
- The dedicated previous and next page arrows are missing from the interface, making it difficult to move between pages.
Ensure your PDF software is updated to the latest version, and verify that you haven't accidentally switched to a minimalist reading mode that hides standard toolbars.
Use Keyboard Shortcuts and the Thumbnail Panel
Even if the on-screen arrows are missing, you can efficiently navigate PDF pages using built-in keyboard shortcuts and the thumbnail pane.
When interface updates remove or hide familiar buttons, relying on keyboard shortcuts and built-in navigation panes is often the fastest and most reliable workaround.
Press the 'Page Down' key on your keyboard to jump to the next page, or 'Page Up' to return to the previous page.
Alternatively, use the 'Down Arrow' and 'Up Arrow' keys to scroll through the document smoothly if continuous scrolling is enabled.
Open the left-hand sidebar in your PDF reader and click the 'Thumbnails' icon. Click on any page thumbnail to jump directly to that specific page.

Customize the Toolbar to Restore Missing Buttons
Many PDF readers allow you to customize the toolbar. The navigation arrows might simply be hidden and can be re-added from the settings menu.
Read and Navigate PDFs Effortlessly with WPS Office
If your current PDF reader's interface is confusing or missing essential tools, WPS Office provides a clean, intuitive, and feature-rich PDF reading experience. It includes easy-to-find page navigation controls, smooth scrolling, and full compatibility with standard PDF files.
- 1. Open your PDF in WPS Office: Launch WPS Office, click on 'Open', and select the PDF file you want to read.
- 2. Locate the Navigation Bar: Look at the bottom status bar or the top toolbar to find the dedicated 'Previous Page' and 'Next Page' arrow buttons.
- 3. Use the Thumbnail Pane: Click the sidebar icon on the left to expand the Thumbnails view, allowing you to scroll and click directly to any page.
- 4. Enable Continuous Scrolling: Go to the 'View' tab and select 'Continuous Scrolling' to seamlessly navigate pages using your mouse wheel.

Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the page navigation arrows disappear from my PDF reader?
Navigation arrows can disappear due to recent software updates that change the user interface, accidental customization that hid the buttons, or switching into a minimalist 'Read Mode' that automatically hides standard toolbars.
What is the fastest way to navigate a PDF without arrows?
The fastest alternative method is using your keyboard. Pressing the Page Up and Page Down keys will instantly turn the pages. You can also use the mouse scroll wheel if continuous scrolling is enabled in your view settings.
How do I jump to a specific page number directly?
Most PDF readers have a page number box typically located at the top or bottom of the screen. You can click on this box, type the specific page number you want, and press Enter on your keyboard to jump straight to it.
Can I restore the old interface of my PDF reader?
Some PDF readers offer a 'Classic Mode' or allow you to heavily customize the toolbar to resemble older versions. Check your application's 'View' or 'Preferences' settings to see if interface customization is supported.




