This is probably not the smartest question (and I think I know the answer), but I wanted to double check before I did anything. I’m wondering if importing files (images, pdf, mp3, etc.) into scrivener makes it’s own copy inside the project or is it a reference to said files? I’d hate to delete or move something I’ve added for it to disappear.
That it does! The only exception would be if you use the File ▸ Import ▸ Research Files as Aliases… menu command. In that case only a marker pointing to the original file will be stored, otherwise a copy is made and you can dispose of the originals if you please.