If you have an account on the BitcoinTalk forum, you already know how valuable Merit is. Earlier it was very easy to get merit but now it is very difficult to get merit.
I was a bit disappointed with the way people were trying to get merit. A few days ago I came across a newbie thread titled "How to get Merit", where other members suggested:
1) Make quality posts.
2) Give useful information.
3) Help other members solve problems.
Some of the members suggested some terrible things. They were like this:
1) Buy an account.
2) Exchange merit.
I want to share how you can earn merit through today's post.
1) First understand yourself, merit is nothing. Now the question may come why?
Because when you are doing something useful in the community, doing the right things, there is something good in you. Never judge it by merit. There is no such thing as merit. It can be a reward for doing something good.
2) Spread positive things around you.
3) Post only on topics that you understand well.
If you understand mining well then go to altcoin discussion and help people, give advice. If you have any important information please share it with the community.
If you are a coder then visit the software sections and share your ideas.
If you are a trader then discuss trading. Find boards you like and share your positive views.
4) How lucky are you?
After all, luck is also a matter.
Finally remember one thing, merit is nothing if it is the main and important thing. So no need to read about merit. You do your job. If your work adds value to the community, then the community members will already give you merit.
And for the purpose of newbies, I will say one thing, after reading this post, you should never complain again. Do your best all the time.