How can I retrieve documents folder from iCloud to desktop Mac?

I accidentally MOVED my Documents folder from my iMac desktop to iCloud and I would like it back.

iMac 21.5″, macOS 10.14

Posted on Jan 2, 2024 8:21 AM

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Jan 2, 2024 8:44 AM

Moved it how?

What did you do exactly?


If you turned on Desktop and Documents, then turn it off. If you did something else, then you will need to explain what you did exactly before anyone can offer any advice.


click here ➜ Add your Desktop and Documents files to iCloud Drive - Apple Support


Turn off Desktop and Documents


  1. From your Mac, choose Apple menu  > System Settings. In macOS
  2. Monterey or earlier, choose Apple menu  > System Preferences. 
  3. Click Apple ID, then click iCloud.
  4. Under Apps Using iCloud, click iCloud Drive. 
  5. Turn off Desktop & Documents Folders.
  6. Click Done.

What happens when you turn off Desktop and Documents


When you turn off Desktop & Documents Folders,

your files stay in iCloud Drive and a new Desktop and Documents

folder is created on your Mac in the home folder. You can move files

from iCloud Drive to your Mac as you need them, or select all of your

files and drag them to the place you want to keep them.


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2 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Jan 2, 2024 8:44 AM in response to voice_talent

Moved it how?

What did you do exactly?


If you turned on Desktop and Documents, then turn it off. If you did something else, then you will need to explain what you did exactly before anyone can offer any advice.


click here ➜ Add your Desktop and Documents files to iCloud Drive - Apple Support


Turn off Desktop and Documents


  1. From your Mac, choose Apple menu  > System Settings. In macOS
  2. Monterey or earlier, choose Apple menu  > System Preferences. 
  3. Click Apple ID, then click iCloud.
  4. Under Apps Using iCloud, click iCloud Drive. 
  5. Turn off Desktop & Documents Folders.
  6. Click Done.

What happens when you turn off Desktop and Documents


When you turn off Desktop & Documents Folders,

your files stay in iCloud Drive and a new Desktop and Documents

folder is created on your Mac in the home folder. You can move files

from iCloud Drive to your Mac as you need them, or select all of your

files and drag them to the place you want to keep them.


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How can I retrieve documents folder from iCloud to desktop Mac?

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