The current state of research of processes and mechanisms of formation of ferroelectric and magnetic domains by means of impact on single crystals of electric, magnetic, optical and acoustic fields, thermal annealing and changes in chemical composition is considered. It is demonstrated that the practical implementation of induced domain structures has already led to the emergence of new methods of frequency multiplication and parametric transformation of acoustic and optical beams, generation of ultrasonic waves. The possibilities of expanding the use of periodic domain structures in nonlinear acoustics and optics devices are considered. For scientists and specialists working in the field of quantum electronics, acoustic and optoelectronics, as well as for graduate students and senior students of universities .