Welcome to the forum! Merits are earned by making high-quality posts that contribute to the conversation and provide value to the community. It is not just about the quantity of your posts, but the quality. Of course, it also helps to interact with other members and participate in discussions. As for the rules, be sure to read the forum guidelines and follow them accordingly. So take your time, put some thought into your responses, and you will start earning merits in no time. And, happy holidays to you too!