Also known as a letter of intent or memorandum of understanding. A term sheet is a document which sets out certain terms of a transaction agreed in principle between parties, and is typically negotiated and signed at the beginning of a transaction. Term sheets evidence serious intent, but generally are not legally binding. Although the term sheet itself is not typically legally binding, some term sheets contain certain legally binding provisions (for example, confidentiality or exclusivity).

Term sheets are used in a variety of transactions, including commercial negotiations, mergers and acquisitions, lending arrangements, joint ventures, and real estate. In a finance transaction, the term sheet is usually attached to a commitment letter from the lender.