the quick way to get merit is by looking for members who offer smerit to those who make good posts for the answers to their questions. Usually this is in the
META forum
Although I agree that answering questions in certain threads will give you higher possibility to get merit but META is not the place to do this, most of threads there are no suited for Newbies. But one can find there inspiration and threads where merits is given.
I really agree with you meta is not a recommended place for beginner beginners and to get benefits in all forums is your place to get it, that's just how you can make good and quality posts as friends say because those who have smerit will give it to you.ok .... don't be discouraged keep active and learn because you will find wisdom behind it
I cant really deny that Smerits do really mostly circulate into that place but as being said this place aren't suited for any newbie specially when discussions are way too crucial to understand.
You are just simply making or putting yourself into trouble instead rather than getting a merit if you have posted crappy things out there. Its really hard to get merit and you should not hurry yourself to get one.
Just do your job on posting relevant and contributing replies and you would gain some points unexpectedly.