I couldn't find the details about how to earn merit as a newbie, and how to earn sMerit, I think this information is not here in this forum. I understand making useful posts will earn merit but what it means?
There are many posts and useful links above which can guide you on how to get merits for the posts. But if you are a good poster and want to keep it simple, do not think of the merits. They will come to you automatically if people like what you are posting.