How to add an auto-numbering column to a database

[Avi Valentine]

I have an existing database and want to add a column. Each new entry should create a sequential number (ID). 

[Trisha Griffis · Accepted solution]

What Isn’t Possible Natively

If you’re using Confluence’s newer database feature (structured content DBs), you cannot auto-generate a sequential ID within the table—no built-in support yet.

And another query specifically for Confluence Database auto-numbering confirms no current support.

There are Third-Party Tools to Make It Happen

If native functionality doesn’t fit your use case (for example, in databases or needing formatted IDs like “001”, “002”), there are several good options:

A. Advanced Tables for Confluence (Table Plus Macro)

• Provides auto-number rows and auto-total numeric columns.

• You can set these up using {table-plus} syntax with parameters like autoNumber=true. 

B. Table Filter and Charts + Table Transformer

• Wrap your table with the Table Transformer macro.

• Use an SQL-like query: 

SELECT *, ROWNUM() AS "Sys Req id"
FROM T1

• You can also format the ID with leading zeros using padding functions like padStart(3, "0"). Example: “001”, “002”, etc 

Jer-nee Consulting is a Solutions partner and we are happy to quote the add-ons for you and pass along a discount. If you are interested in saving on the solution feel free to book a call with us here.

[Avi Valentine]

Thank you Trisha!

[Tomislav Tobijas · Accepted solution]

Hi @Avi Valentine ,

As Trisha mentioned, databases currently do not support this feature.

There's a suggestion related to your requirement which you can check (and drop a vote) here: CONFCLOUD-78746: Confluence database improvements on the fields section and view 

Cheers,
Tobi

[Avi Valentine]

Thanks Tomislav! I cast my vote :)