Concentrate more on having a good time on the forum, merits come when you don't even expect it, be real and stay positive, find good posts and engage in the discussion, give valid points why something is what you believe it is, this is when your replies will worth some merits.
Don't join spam topics is a good start because by participating in non spam topics, you will improve your writing. You will also learn new knowledge from good posters, experts, legendary merited members. Continuing with this way, you will become more knowledgeable and can make better posts.
Also bring in stuff that are crypto related that many people may not know about, share your experience and ask questions about things you don't know or have idea about, and also do not put in more effort as if you are craving for merits, people will intentionally ignore your posts for doing so.
You don't actually need to create something new to earn merit. The challenge is your knowledge must be enough to help other members who in needs. Another challenge is you must be faster than other members to help that OP. Because if you are late, other members will make their answers before you do, hence you lose a chance to make a constructive post that can help you to earn merit.