The first step in solving for \( x \) in the equation \( 5.6(x + 1.42) = 7.8 \) is to divide both sides by \( 5.6 \).
So, the correct first step is:
Divide both sides by 5.6.
This will help isolate the term containing \( x \). After that, you can proceed to solve for \( x \).