A letter of intent (LOI) is a formal document that expresses an individual's intention to participate in a particular activity, event, or transaction. This document outlines the terms and conditions of the proposed agreement between two or more parties. It is often used as a preliminary negotiation tool before preparing a legally binding contract. There are various types of letters of intent, each serving a specific purpose. Some common examples include: 1. Business Partnership Letter of Intent: In this type of LOI, two or more businesses express their intention to collaborate on a specific project or form a long-term business relationship. It outlines the goals, responsibilities, and expectations of each party involved. 2. Employment Letter of Intent: This letter is typically used by job seekers to express their interest in a specific position or company. It briefly highlights the candidate's qualifications, skills, and why they believe they would be a good fit for the job. 3. College/University Letter of Intent: Prospective students often write a letter of intent to their desired educational institutions to showcase their interest and commitment to attending. It typically includes details about the student's academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and personal goals. 4. Real Estate Letter of Intent: This letter is commonly used in real estate transactions to express a buyer's interest in purchasing a property or a seller's intent to sell. It outlines the essential terms, such as the purchase price, contingencies, and desired closing date. 5. Research Letter of Intent: Researchers or scholars often submit a letter of intent to express their interest in conducting a study, seeking grants, or obtaining sponsorship for their research projects. It outlines the proposed research topic, objectives, and the anticipated impact of the study. 6. Mergers and Acquisitions Letter of Intent: Companies planning to merge or acquire another business often use this type of LOI. It outlines the proposed terms of the transaction, including the purchase price, due diligence process, and key milestones to be achieved. In summary, a letter of intent serves as an initial step to establish the intentions and expectations of parties involved in a wide range of activities. It helps set the tone for negotiations and provides a framework for the subsequent formal agreement.