Hi, I'm building a character for the first time for SWSE, so the following might stem from a rules misunderstanding on my part. However I notice that upon selecting the rakatan weapon template, in trying to then select exotic weapon proficiency with it, the option to do so does not appear, and I'm unable to find a way to get weapon focus and weapon specialization to apply, either. While remembering to roll d12s will be easy enough, like with point blank shot (I come from D&D/PF), I know I'm going to forget to add the +1 to attacks on a regular basis.
You have raised a very good question. It's a problem that I'm also having. The only thing I can suggest is: Select the Exotic Weapon Proficiency and try to find the closest exotic weapon that matches the weapon you want to use. For example, if you are using a Rakatan heavy blaster rifle, then select a Exotic Weapon Proficiency (Bowcaster) instead. Then that will allow you to select Weapon Focus (Bowcaster) and Weapon Specialization (Bowcaster). Then in the "Notes" tab, make a note that lists the correct attack and damage dice, as well as special attacks like Autofire. You will have to calculate those adjustments manually, but at least you can select the feats and talents. That's the best I can do.
To help me not forget about things like Point Blank Shot, I will list 2 attack entries on my character sheet. For example:
Ranged Rakatan heavy blaster rifle +5 (3d12+3)
Ranged Rakatan heavy blaster rifle +6 (3d12+4) within point blank (30 squares)
Ranged Rakatan heavy blaster rifle +0 (3d12+3, 2x2 sq area) with autofire
Ranged Rakatan heavy blaster rifle +1 (3d12+4, 2x2 sq area) with autofire within point blank (30 squares)