Notes from Chipper:  https://vccachat.org/ubbthreads.php/ubb/showflat/Number/285347/Searchpage/1/Main/45145/Words/ignition_UBBT_PHRASE_system_UBBT_PHRASE_before/Search/true/re-1950-wont-start.html#Post285347

You can check most of the ignition system before trying to start the engine. Connect positive post on battery to positive post on coil. Or you can turn on the ignition switch then remove the wire from the positive post of the coil. Quickly pass the terminal end of the wire past a ground to see if you get a spark. Or if you have a VOM or test light you can test the positive post on the coil with everything attached and a piece of paper between the points. You should get battery voltage or light the test light if the wire, ignition switch and battery are good. If no spark or voltage then check the switch, wires or battery. Once you have power to the positive post on the coil then you can test other components.

With the paper between points (or points open) you should have battery voltage on both coil posts and to the hot side of the points. If not check wires and terminal ends.

Once you have voltage to the points short across the points with a screwdriver. You should see and hear a spark. With spark at points, hold the end of the center coil wire approx. 1/2" from ground and short across the points. You should get a spark from the end of the wire to ground that makes a "Snap". If not check the condenser to see if it is attached to the negative post on the coil or wire to the points on the distributor and the case is grounded. If not spark or weak spark replace the condenser. Once you have a strong "snappy" spark from the coil center wire, test the points. Remove the paper from the points and open and close then by hand. If you get the same strength spark as shorting across them they are good. If a weaker spark, clean or replace the points. Once you have a good strong spark from the center wire operating the points, put on the rotor, distributor cap and center coil wire to the distributor cap. You are ready to start the car.

As you can see it does not take a second person to test and diagnose the ignition system with a set of points. Don't have to turn over the engine either.

If there is a problem with the engine starting or you have any doubts that spark is getting to the plugs it may take a person to hit the starter while another person holds a spark plug wire 1/2" from a ground. It can be done by a single person on a '29 to mid-30s Chevy by activating the starter switch with the left hand and holding the wire with the right. If your left hand is weak it also can be done by switching your hands.