How to Automatically Number Headings for PDF Export in LibreOffice Writer?

Hi everyone,

I’m working on a long document in LibreOffice Writer that I plan to export as a PDF. I’ve set up my headings using the built-in Heading 1, Heading 2, etc., but I’m struggling to get consistent automatic numbering (e.g., 1., 1.1, 1.1.1).

I’d like:

Heading 1 → 1, 2, 3…
Heading 2 → 1.1, 1.2, etc.
Heading 3 → 1.1.1, 1.1.2, etc.

Right now, either the numbering is inconsistent or the PDF shows unexpected formatting after export.

I’ve tried adjusting the Styles → Manage Styles → Numbering settings and experimenting with Tools → Chapter Numbering, but I’m still not getting the result I want.

  1. What’s the correct way to set up multi-level numbering for headings in LibreOffice?
  2. Is there anything special I need to do before exporting to PDF so the numbering stays intact?
  3. Are there known quirks with certain versions of LibreOffice around this?

Thanks in advance!