If I save my file as a svg then close inkscape it closes immediately. If I save it as svg, then export a png, then close inkscape, it asks if I want to save changes. This is a bit confusing. Is it supposed to do that?

Thanks,
Dave

When you save as png you enter a path and a name for that image, that information is stored in the Inkscape svg file. This means that you changed the document with the new information and that's why it is asking you if you want to save it.
When you come back to export the same selection to png again you will automatically be offered the choice you entered the first time.

I see. That makes sense. The same thing happens, however, after I save as a pdf file. When I close the document it asks if I want to save it as an svg. Is there a way to prevent this question? If I wanted to save it as an svg, I would have saved it as an svg!

Thanks,
Dave

If I remember correctly it was discussed on the development list, I don't remember the conclusion though. Probably that the dialogues should be rewritten and made more clear.

It is done this way to prevent data loss. If you open Inkscape, draw something and then save as pdf, not all the information will be saved that could be put into svg, so Inkscape reminds you and you have a chance to save all of your work.

If you are working on a svg, and want to export to pdf also, use the Save a copy option to make the pdf. It will create the pdf file but it won't open it, you will keep working on the original svg so when you close it it won't have to remind you of the "lossy" format.

Ah that'll do it. I agree the first way should be made less confusing though.

Thanks,
Dave