Initially, I use to think merit is by chance ( i.e something that will just happen) or lengthy article ( i.e writing too many paragraphs and the rest of them), but I have come to realize that, it is more than that.
I have being discouraged several times because of my numerous posts and replies yet no merit then. Even now, some times I use to be discourage. However, the only way to get merit is by posting quality article ( that is what determines merit) which almost everybody is aware of now.
In summary, don't look at the quantity of post you have make so far but instead try to adjust, I mean improve in your posts, above all be consistent and patient that is the key.
If a person joins the forum thinking that they would come here, make posts repeatedly in a short period, earn a bunch of Merits, rank up, and join signature and bounty campaigns to earn money then I think this wish will get them exhausted very soon and the result would be them leaving the forum.
The purpose of joining this forum should be to get a lot of your doubts clear about the cryptocurrency industry and learn a lot of things that we never knew before joining the forum.
When it comes to Merits, a diamond doesn't need to prove itself because its shine says it all. Similarly, an experienced and knowledgeable person's contributions tell how able the person is and what he/she deserves.