Confused some forum functions

[StrangerDanger]

Hi all,

Semi-new user here.  I want to start contributing more to the site after DA's recent redesign *shudder*, but am a little confused about how things work around here.

First, how do you give someone Karma?  I just got 10+ karma myself, and want to start giving back, but can't seem to figure it out.  I read through the forum rules and the sticky, and as far as I can tell there should be a [applaud+] button under the profile picture, but that doesn't show up for me.  Is there something I need to do first for it to show up?

Also, is there a search function anywhere?  I have a couple things I want to share, but want to make sure that they aren't posted already.

And finally, do I have to make an active reply to a post to see hidden links.  There are a couple of old posts I want to get into, but I don't want to necro a bunch of long dead posts to do so either.

Any help would be appreciated.  And, sorry if this isn't the correct place to post this.

[Old Surehand]

Familiarize yourself with this section. You can learn how to post pictures, how to give karma and I'm sure other questions you have can be answered here. Another thing I encourage members to do is read the sticky posts on each section of the forum. Those posts may have information you can benefit from. Our search engine is only available to VIP members, but I tell you I can navigate this forum without the forum search engine. We're optimized by Google. If you type Forum Saradas in the search bar after the name of the person you're looking for, you'll get more results than you would with the forum search engine. Only posts in the public (Lurker access) sections of this forum show up in a Google search The requirement for hidden link is self explanatory. You need to reply to see the link, but the caveat is that you will only see it when you have 10 or more karma. Some people think the link automatically shows up for them when they have 10 or more karma. If you go to a thread that has hide tags, notice how many people with 10 or more karma are replying. In order to see the applaud button under someone's name, you have to be an active poster. As of the time of this post you only have six posts. You need to be more active.

[StrangerDanger]

Thanks for the help.  I'll try to be more active.

That was my guess, but just wanted to be sure.

[IAMGOAT]

Hello.  The applaud button only appears for active users.  You need to make more posts.  At that point you will see the applaud button appear.  The search function is for VIP members only.  You have to donate for this access.  Your last question I do not have an answer to.  Sorry.