To solve the equation \( 5.6(n + 1.42) = 7.8 \), the first step is to divide both sides by 5.6 to isolate the expression containing \( n \).
So, the second step after dividing both sides by 5.6 would be to subtract 1.42 from both sides.
Therefore, the correct response is: Subtract 1.42 from both sides.