I've been saving this somewhat guide for a while now since i am not sure where to put this. I also thought that posting this would increase the number of merit related thread in the Meta section, another reason why i'm hesitating about this. But here goes.

We all know that the only way to get a merit is by hoping for others to give us some, provided that we produce quality posts. Some people believe that they're making quality posts but can't reckon why they don't receive any merits.

Although I don't have much, but surely I have been blessed than most by some members and now I want to pay it forward. I have started from the bottom just like most of you that's why I want to help those who are clueless on what to do.

This is what I usually consider when posting and replying to threads, three easy and simple things to consider when posting. This may be common-sense but I hope this helps.


Steps:


1. Pick a topic.

Picking a topic to post on to may be the hardest part in the guide but any topic of your choice will do! I usually pick topics that are fresh(post that have few views and replies). Why? Because it would be an advantage if you answered the topic first, there would be no restraints and you can freely say what you want to say. Replying to the thread would be like a plain canvas waiting for unlimited possibilities. Picking an old topic is not quite bad either, especially if the topic is really interesting, but replies would be limited since most of the ideas are already laid off, including what you may be thinking and if this is the case, better not reply anymore and just pick another topic since this would just cause spamming of threads.

In addition, if you picked a fresh topic, people who are viewing the thread will see your reply on top plus it won't be burried with tons of incoming replies. Thus, giving your post a safe and sweet spot for any credit-giver.


2. Know the topic.

Question: Do you know the topic?
If yes: Good! Proceed to step 3.
If no: Research on the topic or go back to step 1.

Researching about the topic doesn't just mean reading an article or two, it can also be(but not required) watching videos about the topic or viewing some infographic about it. Anything goes as long as you understand and learn something new. If you think you're knowledgable enough to answer then proceed to step 3.


3. Answer the topic.

After researching, with your own words, try to answer the topic. Remember that answers may be short or long, it need not to be technical nor scientific. It just need to be clear, concise, and most of all sensible for everyone to understand. And don't even think about plagiarizing an article saying that you've made a good post, because people read, and if people noticed that you just copy/pasted an article then be ready for the consequences. Are you really trying to risk your account for some merits? Merits can be earned anytime but activities, reputation, and trusts takes time.

Now that you have answered the topic, be confident on what you have wrote and try not to think much about receiving merits. Continue on doing quality posts and im sure, little by little, people would notice and reward you for that. That would be all, thank you and godspeed!