The Three Act Structure
This type of story has a beginning, middle, and end.
The Classic Story
This type of story has been around for a long time and usually follows a popular plot. Examples include mystery, romance, coming of age, etc.
Reading or listening to a story can cause the user to imply causation even if there is none. Even if all the information isn't provided, the brain will make a connection between an event and a corresponding result even if it isn't clear that one exists.
Stories are appropriate in all settings. Even a dry document such as an annual report can benefit from a story to better help engage the reader.