How should an ammeter be connected in a circuit?

The correct approach to connecting an ammeter in a circuit is to place it in series with the load. When an ammeter is connected in series, it allows the full current that flows through the circuit to pass through the meter. This ensures that the ammeter can accurately measure the current flowing in the circuit, as the current remains the same throughout a series connection.

Connecting an ammeter in parallel with the circuit or load is not appropriate because it can create a short circuit. This occurs because an ammeter has very low internal resistance, which can lead to an excessive current flowing through the device, potentially damaging it and causing unsafe conditions. Similarly, isolating the ammeter from the circuit or placing it at the supply side without completing a series connection would not provide any measurement of the current in the circuit—effectively rendering it useless for current measurement purposes.