The places where manuscripts differ in their reading are called _______________.

The term "variants" accurately describes the differences found in the readings of manuscripts. In biblical studies, particularly in textual criticism, variants refer to the many ways in which words, phrases, or passages may appear differently across various manuscripts. These variations can arise from factors such as copying errors, regional dialects, or the personal preferences of scribes.

Understanding variants is crucial for scholars who seek to establish the most authentic text of the Bible. By analyzing these differences, scholars can trace the history of the text, understand how it was transmitted, and make informed decisions about the preferred readings.

Other options like "accords" and "annotations" do not relate to the textual differences among manuscripts but rather suggest agreement or notes made on the manuscripts, respectively. "Discrepancies," while it might imply differences, does not specifically denote the nuanced discussion of textual variations that "variants" encapsulates. Therefore, the term "variants" is the most appropriate choice in the context of manuscript studies.