In this paper, we explore new applications of the exponential rational function method to the scalar Qiao equation and the Kuramoto-Sivashinsky equation. The obtained solutions may be of significance for the explanation of some practical physical problems. The method is very suitable, easy and effective handling of the solution process of nonlinear equations. (C) 2016 The Physical Society of the Republic of China (Taiwan). Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.