In each case, look at the randomized abilities as soon as you promote. They may have something that encourages you to change the build

You can purchase xcom abilities beyond the soldier’s current rank

Casey has excellent class guides. He now covers LWOTC.

General soldier info: https://www.ufopaedia.org/index.php/Soldiers_(LWOTC)

Table of contents

Things each squad needs

Make sure squads have:

• Cover Destruction - Grenadier / Technical / Templar (if you took abilities that move foes out of cover)
• Hack from range (hack missions) - Specialist
• Scout - Shinobi / Reaper (in a pinch)
• Control - Technical / Gunner / Electroshock Assault
• Guaranteed Damage - Psi Op / Shinobi / Assault / Technical / Grenadier / Combat Protocol Specialist / Templar
• Shooter - Rangers / Sharpshooter / Gunner / Reaper / Skirmisher