Wiring pots as variable resistors

[psiico]

Help a newbie out, which of these is better and is there even a difference?



If there is a difference, please explain.

[LyleCaldwell]

If the pot is behaving properly there is no difference between the two.  But if gunk gets in the pot or for whatever reason the wiper fails, the method tying the wiper to an outside lug means you'll still get a signal.