Based on the main results of cognitive-oriented research on text and reading this paper illustrates how some fundamental grammar competences, combined with the underlining of formal text-coherence patterns can be seen and used as reading strategies, enabling the reader to progressively grasp the meanings of a text. By knowing the typology of verbal means used to express referentiality, adult learners of a foreign language can considerably enhance their ability to comprehend the way in which a text is organized, thus accelerating their competence in reading and comprehension.