Provided are compositions, methods and systems for determining the sequence of a template nucleic acid using a polymerase-based, sequencing-by-binding procedure. An examination step involves monitoring the interaction between a polymerase and template nucleic acid in the presence of one or more nucleotides. Identity of the next correct nucleotide in the sequence is determined without incorporation of any nucleotide into the structure of the primer by formation of a phosphodiester bond. An optional incorporation step can be used after the examination step to extend the primer by one or more nucleotides, thereby incrementing the template nucleotides that can be examined in a subsequent examination step. The sequencing-by-binding procedure does not require the use of labeled nucleotides or polymerases, but optionally can employ these reagents.