Turn OFF iCloud but keep Desktop?

[cheddar-caveman]

2018 MacBook Pro running Mojave 10.14.6
I keep getting reminded that my iCloud is full, very annoying, so I want to just turn it off, not use it but when I do I lose my Desktop (probably amongst other things!)
So, how can I turn iCloud off but keep my Desktop as there's a lot of stuff on it?
(I'm 82 so keep it simple please??)

 

[Wotcher]

I think if you turn off iCloud both Desktop and Documents folders would be affected. In any case, you can copy both folders to (for example) a thumb drive, turn off iCloud, and check to see if your Desktop/Dcouments have been erased. My guess is that those folders will stay intact, but in case they don't, you have a backup.

I have an older in-law with the free (5GB) iCloud and he's also been running into similar problems. What I had him do was to purchase a $100 iCloud gift card--in many cases you can buy one for 10-15% off. Sign up for the 50 GB iCloud plan for $0.99/mo, which comes out to ~8 years of "prepaid" iCloud. Just check every year and top off as necessary.

 

[cheddar-caveman]

Thanks Watcher. Yes, If I turn OFF iCloud everything on the Desktop disappears>
I must say that I object having to pay for something I didn't want in the first place, I don't remember turning the darn thing on in the first place.
I'll try and save everything on the Desktop somewhere and take it from there!

UPDATE: Yep, saved all my folders etc. to an external drive, turned off iCloud and as expected everything disappeared. Opened the external drive and copied everything back, all working just fine!

Thanks folks.

Cheers