Oldsmobile 2004 Alero Owner's Manual page 266

Don't let the other end touch anything until the next
step. The other end of the negative ( ) cable doesn't
go to the dead battery. It goes to a heavy, unpainted
metal engine part or to a remote negative ( )
terminal on the vehicle with the dead battery.
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9. Connect the other end of the negative ( ) cable at
least 18 inches (45 cm) away from the dead battery,
but not near engine parts that move. The electrical
connection is just as good there, and the chance
of sparks getting back to the battery is much less.
10. Now start the vehicle with the good battery and run
the engine for a while.
11. Try to start the vehicle that has the dead battery. If
it won't start after a few tries, it probably needs
service.