Abstract: In this paper, we present an effective optimization method of sensor arrangement for monitoring the dynamic response of thin flexible structures like plates and shells. The proposed method consists of genetic algorithm, modal kinetic energy and modal assurance criterion. A simplified wing structure is used to evaluate the effectiveness of the method. The numerical analysis and experimental results demonstrate that the proposed optimization algorithm can be used to determine effectively sensor arrangements. Firstly, the modal kinetic energy algorithm is used to catch the degree of freedom of the dynamic response of the structure with a large amplitude, and effectively improves the signal-noise ratio during the health monitoring. Secondly, the combination of genetic algorithm and modal assurance criterion can effectively ensure the independence of modal shapes, and provide more modal information of the structure, such as the modal frequency and the modal shape. The damage detection and the estimation of the residual life are more accurate and effective by using the proposed optimization method.