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.
Yes, it's more than all that. It's a subjective thing. What catches the attention of Mr A in a post may not be what catches that of Mr B.
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.
I know how frustrating that can be, posting without getting merited would make one see one's posts as substandard and shitty. I had a long merit draught season from my senior rank to hero. It was from the hero rank that I got merit splash that easily took me to the legendary rank. My advice to you in all this is never be discouraged that your posts aren't getting merited now. Continue posting constructively and don't think much of it. Merits will come when you least expect it.
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 one doesn't look at the quality of posts one makes, how does one make adjustments then? Perhaps I didn't understand your comment well. Is it?