With many swords both techniques can work.. the thrust opens you up more to counter attack, but it can be more deadly
In JKD (I teach it) we normally stay "outside" and cut.. you know even with a sword the cut can be just as effective as a thrust.. if your opponent exposes his wrist and you take it off with a cut, that's pretty debilitating, right there
With a short blade.. a lot more realistic in normal times..cuts are the only way to go.. watch these