When testing for sparks, the best is to get get a spark plug tester. The next best is to get a spark plug and plug it into the plug wire and hold it to any part of the engine. DO NOT attempt to the ground it at the battery negative termnals.
Get a helper to crank the engine and note if there are sparks. It should be bright instead of dull orange.
If you don't get any sparks, it most probably is the ignition coil.
What you did does not affect a good ignition coil but it would kill a failing one.
http://www.2carpros.com/articles/car-cranks-but-wont-start
Whatever test you have done so far, let me know the complete details the above link explains how to go about.
Friday, August 3rd, 2012 AT 4:18 AM