Quote Originally Posted by cwesto
If i were to use the paper towel method on a plate under a bowl, should i put the seed in between damp paper towels or just sit it on top of some damp paper towels? Also should i refrain from touching the seed while it is germinating?
The seed needs to be in between the paper towels, so that all sides will get an even amount of moisture. Otherwise, there's a good chance that the water won't be able to penetrate into the seed.

As for touching the seeds; they should be disturbed as little as possible, but need to be checked at least once every 24 hours. In theory, you don't want the emerging roots to grow too long after cracking the shell...or you'll risk damaging it by peeling it off of the paper towel, transplanting into your growing medium, etc. Touching the seeds themselves isn't the problem, it's disturbing the super-sensitive root. If it becomes damaged at such a young age, there's a very good chance that their initial growth will be stunted, or worse, halted altogether.