Toyota Repair: Check engine light, toyota corolla, trouble code

Question
I have a 97 toyota corolla with 190,057 miles on it.  My check engine lights been on for about 6 months.  At first it came on and then off.  It use to go off when I fill it up, now it's on all the time.  I haven't taken it in. Also, lately when I start it, it's shaking alot.  Is there something I can do to make it not shake soo much.  I don't know anything about car so whatever advice will help.  

Answer
I can't help with the check engine light unless I know what the trouble code is so I suggest that you have it diagnosed to see why the light is on, I can't be of much help either with the engine shaking, the statement is not specific enough for me to help, I need more  information.
Is the engine misfiring, running rough at idle, all the time or is there a vibration at idle that can be felt in the steering wheel? I would recommend that you have someone look at it and then you can contact me again with the recommendations they come up with, I may just be able to save you unessary repairs and money.