You have to earn points to get to higher levels. The higher the level, the more points you can assign. Beginners are +/-1, up to the most experienced AB users +/-6. Keep on asking & answering questions and you will continue to make your way up the ranks as I am doing!

It all depends how far "Up" the AB Ladder Level you are or aren't. The lower your Level, the fewer points you have to work with per answer. You get more answers when you post an interesting Q which is of broad interest to A LOT of participants in the AB Community. AND you should post each Q in the appropriate category. WARNING: There are MANY, MANY Qs which were already asked which your Q may be considered a duplicate of. AND PLEASE DON'T post the same Q two or more times. It will DEFINITELY be flagged as a "Duplicate". Every person on AB started where you are now - at Level 1. It's been awhile since my answer was posted. Speaking for myself and maybe the others who answered your Q: We do our best to provide helpful answers. How about giving one or more of us a lift by awarding that point? We know you might want to add more (or take away more) points. In the beginning this is what AB allows you to do. It could help make our efforts feel as though they were appreciated and help our day a little better. This is how you advance from one Level to another. YOU ask Qs. You make "Comments" and chat with one or more of those answering your Qs or answering other folks Qs. You rate Answers. You get points for your Qs. Without taking anything away from you or your rating, you are expected to give points for our answers. All you have to do is click your mouse on "+" sign or "-" sign above the "Rate Answer". Please feel free to enter "Comments". Except for a little time, none of the things I mentioned costs you a thing. You don't get points taken away, but points are added to your account. I HOPE you enjoy your time on AB. Thanks for asking your Q! I did my best to answer it. I hope the information helps. VTY, Ron Berue Yes, that is my real last name! Sources: Some personal observations and opinions. "THE University of Hard Knocks" Also known as ("a/k/a") "life's valuable lessons".