How to get diagnostic trouble code w/o a reader/device?

I have a 2001 Corolla with the check engine lite on. I understand how to reset it by temporarily removing the fuse. But, aside from taking it to the shop, how can I find out which trouble code(s) are causing the lite to go on. I seem to remember there is a trick involving using a paperclip to make a connection of some kind which triggers the engine lite to flash--by counting the flashes you can find out the code #s. Anyone know exactly how to do this? Thx.

How to get diagnostic trouble code w/o a reader/device?
the paper clip trick is for the old GM OBD-1 system. AutoZone will tell you what the code is for free.
Reply:simply use a jumper of some kind and jump terminals A and B of the data-link connector. when the engine light begins to flash simply count the flashes, one flash pause two flash would be a code 12, which is usually a clear code each code should be separated with a code 1.
Reply:in a vehicle this new finding the codes without a OBDII scanner would be impossible. The paperclip trick you describe only works on older GM model cars.. no foreign cars that i can think of ever had this feature.