If you've already "read the very first few lines of this thread" and you're still confused, then the short answer is:

• Be somewhat "active ^{[you have to post instead of just roaming around]"}and earn "merits ^{[it's meant for high-quality posts but some tend to give it for useful posts as well]}".
  
  • Take note: Don't ask for merits and refrain from spamming or rather making useless posts.