I think I have instinctively known these rules, and structural concepts. Just not their terminology and nuances. To label them, and define them, and understand their relationship to each other, and how they fit into the grander scheme of writing has been helpful to me. Even if just to remove a sense of nebulousness within my own consciousness about the writing process.

And knowing the rules gives a greater sense of freedom to break those rules when appropriate. Which can be fun in itself.