The choice of assignment types in a course is shown to have differential effect on performance of specific types of students. Using data from six semesters of college Economics classes, the study demonstrates that male and non-traditional students are more likely to have higher performance on multiple choice questions. Students whose major field of study is related to the course are more likely to do better on the essay questions. This non-uniform effect implies that choosing only one assignment type in a course may provide an advantage to certain types of students. As a result, utilizing a combination of assessment instruments may be recommended. (Contains 3 tables.)