Would jumping power to the starter a good way to test it

Jumping 12 volts from the battery positive post to the small wire on the starter will make it crank the engine. An easier way is to jump between the two terminals right on the starter. Doing that bypasses the neutral safety switch or clutch switch so be sure the transmission is in park or out of gear first. If you hear a single rather loud clunk each time you do that or turn the ignition switch to "crank", suspect worn solenoid contacts in the starter. They can be replaced for 20 bucks but most people just replace the entire starter. This is real common with the little silver Nippendenso starters. Many hardware stores and farm-type stores have repair kits now.