Scout
This is the first rank you earn when you join Scouts. For this rank, you must know the basics of scouting such as the Scout Oath, Scout Law, Scout Motto, and Scout Slogan. There is a Scoutmaster conference, but no Board of Review for this rank.
Tenderfoot
Along with the Second and First Class ranks, this rank helps build on the foundations you learned as a Scout. You can work on all three at the same time, but you must earn them in order, with a minimum of 6 months between each. This rank, and all ranks going forward, will require a Scoutmaster Conference and a Board of Review.
Second Class
Building on what you have learned and practiced as a Tenderfoot, you will add to those skills by teaching peers, learning knots, and learning more about physical fitness. If you don't have a role on the Patrol Leadership Committee, you should make sure you take one on. Options such as Scribe, Webmaster or Quartermaster are great places to start.
First Class
This rank seems to take the longest to complete, so stay focused! There is a lot of work to be done, but you will focus more on service, teaching, the outdoors, and your role in the Troop. You should try and take on leadership of a Patrol, whether it's as the Patrol Leader (PL) or Assistant Patrol Leader (APL).
Star
By now you have moved to the more experienced side of being a Scout. Knots such as the square knot and half-hitch should be easy to do, and leading your fellow scouts at a meeting or on a campout should make you feel confident and knowledgeable. Your focus through this rank and through Eagle should be on leadership, not just in the troop, but in the community as well.
Life
Only four months are necessary to wait after completing Star to complete this rank. If you haven't yet had the Senior Patrol Leader role, then it should definitely happen now, preferably before you complete this rank. You can start thinking about your Eagle project, although no planning or work can begin until after the Life rank has been awarded.
Eagle
You've made it! You are now working on the highest rank in scouting. Congratulations, but you're not done yet. Please go to the Path to Eagle page to get all the information on what needs to be done. This rank must be completed before your 18th birthday.