Wow that was the first thing you saw after creating your account less than 10 minutes in? And how did you know what merit was for? Probably maybe through reading the rules you will say. Then I will say you can find your way to that rules thread to learn a thing about the forum. Also since you were able to navigate your way around to a merit board then try to check on the pined posts on this board it will guide you.
It's possible to know about merit system if he's been visiting the forum and read through even without registering but I don't think that's the case with OP. It's just unfortunate how our generation will visit a place without bothering to know about the rules and regulations guiding it. The important thing now is that OP is here and willing to learn about the forum.
To OP, all the necessary threads you need to read to get yourself familiar with the forum has been suggested for you in the comments section but I think it's also important to read this
welcome message and know where to start from. This forum is actually a nice place to be and I'm sure you'll enjoy your stay if you can keep to terms and abide by the ethics. You don't only read the rules but you follow them accordingly so as to not shorten your stay here. I join the rest of the forum members to welcome you once again.