Intense interests on surfaces with micro- and nano-patterns originated from abundant applications in optics, electronics, tissue engineering, biomedical sensors, etc. Searching for ways to create small patterns in both organic and inorganic materials at reduced operation time and cost is one of the challenges in nanotechnology. This paper reviews recent advances in patterning of thin films by using etectrohydrodynamic instabilities, a simple and cost-effective bottom-up method. Challenges and future directions are also discussed from the point of view of both fundamental understanding and technological applications of the pattern formation induced by the electric field. (C) 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.