For us newbies, perhaps before we try to hunt for merit I think it would be best if we should learn more about the forum and its cycle as a whole.
This.
I don't know whether yours is a new account after having an existing account tagged for solely hunting merit, or you're an actual newbie who cares, but your statement, as simple as it is, hits the nail on the head.
Merit is a byproduct of great posts and activity on the forums, not a given right. A lot of members tend to believe that they have a RIGHT to 'earn' merits. This thought needs to be eradicated from people's minds.